Woman airlifted to safety in East Cork

A woman was airlifted to safety in East Cork yesterday evening after getting into difficulty when her path was cut off by a rising tide.

Emergency services were alerted to the incident at around 5pm when the woman became stranded on rocks near the pier at Knockadoon.

A multi-agency response ensued with Youghal Coast Guard, Ballycotton Coast Guard, Youghal RNLI and An Garda Siochana responding.

Volunteers could not reach the woman on foot and the Rescue 117 was called in.

In a statement, Youghal RNLI said their Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat arrived at the scene just after 5.30pm when one of its crew members entered the water and swam ashore to the woman, waiting with her until the helicopter arrived at the scene a few minutes later.

“The lady was then airlifted to safety and handed over to the awaiting Youghal Coast Guard unit and the Ballycotton Coast Guard. She was assessed by the Coast Guard and no medical attention was needed,” Youghal RNLI said in the statement on social media.

Conditions were reported to be calm with good visibility.

Youghal Coast Guard thanked the agencies who responded to the incident. 

Speaking after the shout, Mark Nolan, Youghal RNLI volunteer Deputy Launching Authority said: ‘Tide times and heights can vary and can easily catch you out. Tidal cut off can be dangerous so we would remind everyone before they head out to make sure it’s safe and to check tide tables. While you are out it is important to be aware of your surroundings and the tide’s direction. Should you get into difficulty dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard"