Local fishermen and the Clifden RNLI lifeboat launched to the rescue of kayakers in trouble off the cost near Letterfrack over the weekend.
The Clifden RNLI station launched at 4:20pm on Saturday in response to reports of three teenage kayakers who had drifted away from the shore in Ballinakill Bay.
While the lifeboat crew were making their way to the scene, local fishermen from Mannin Bay Salmon Farm who operate in the bay came to the assistance of the young kayakers.
They brought all three safely ashore, where the casualties were assessed by paramedics and found to be well.
James Mullen, Clifden RNLI Coxswain said, “It may sound obvious but it’s worth reminding kayakers that a strong off-shore wind can blow you out to sea very quickly.”
“For people using kayaks, paddleboards, basically anything that floats; once you leave the shore and the protection of the bay you can quickly become powerless against a strengthening wind.”
“A strong off-shore wind, coupled with an outgoing tide is always a risk for paddlers,” he added.
“We would advise anyone enjoying water sports to always wear a life vest and appropriate clothes for the weather conditions, for example a wetsuit or layered clothing.”
“Carry a mobile phone in a waterproof pouch on your person, check the tides and the weather and tell someone where you are going and when you’ll be back”
