Training for RNLI crew

NINE Kilrush RNLI crew members travelled to Lahinch recently to carry out an exercise with members of the coastguards from divisions of Doolin and Killaloe. Also joining them were members of the Galway RNLI and Lahinch rescue. This is the first time the Kilrush RNLI joined with the Doolin unit of the Irish Coast Guard for a major exercise.
The evening was co-ordinated by Mattie Shannon from Doolin Coast Guard and after a briefing with 43 people in attendance, teams were divided and the exercise began.
The exercise involved launching two D-class ribs with crew, heading to a moored boat where members were transferred onto the boat and asked to carry out a capsize drill. In the meantime, the remaining crew went to pick up a casualty from the water and bring him ashore.
Lifeboat press officer for Kilrush RNLI station, Pauline Dunleavy said afterwards, “It is most important to keep our training up to speed so that when the time does come to assist or save someone that we will be fully aware of the procedure ahead of us and teamwork like this can only benefit such a call-out”.