Stroke of luck saves jet skiers off coast of Donegal

Stephen Maguire

Two jet skiers who fell into the sea off the coast of Donegal were saved after managing to alert rescue services after their phone was protected by a waterproof case.

Bundoran RNLI came to the aid of the pair who got into difficulty on Thursday evening off Tullan Strand.

The casualties were out enjoying the good weather when they broke down outside the surf in a one to two metre swell.

The alarm was raised at 6.26pm when their jet ski began to have some mechanical issues, causing them to enter the water.

The casualties had their phone with them protected by a waterproof cover and this enabled them to call for help.

The stroke of luck has led the RNLI to issue a warning to surfers and jet skiers to be prepared in the event of an accident.

The inshore lifeboat was requested by the Irish Coast Guard, and the volunteer crew were on scene within minutes.

On arrival, the crew assessed the situation and proceeded to take the casualties from the water and on to the lifeboat.

Both were found to be safe and well and not in need of medical assistance.

They were then brought back the short distance to shore at the lifeboat station.

Speaking following the call out, Bundoran RNLI Helm Brian Gillespie said "It's important people check their equipment before going to sea and ensure that they have a means of calling for help if they get into difficulties.

"Thankfully these casualties were able to call for help and we were able to reach them quickly. People are trying to make the most out of the last few days of the good weather and it’s important to always ensure safety when entering the water no matter how calm the conditions appear.

"If you see someone in trouble on the water or are in difficulties yourself the number to dial is 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard."