A multi-agency search operation took place around the coastline of North Connemara on Monday after a distress signal was detected.
Units of the Clifden RNLI, Cleggan Coast Guard, and Rescue 118 helicopter were dispatched on Monday morning after an EPIRB distress signal was detected by Malin Head Coast Guard in the area of Letterfrack.
An Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) is a device to alert search and rescue services in case of an emergency out at sea.
Both the Shannon Class all-weather lifeboat and the Atlantic 85 lifeboat were dispatched from Clifden RNLI station.
The all-weather lifeboat was the first to launch, and began searching the area of Mullaghloss on the Renvyle peninsula.
The Irish Coast Guard Sligo based Helicopter, Rescue 118 was also tasked to search along with Cleggan Coast Guard units.
An extensive search was carried out of the reported areas by all assets with a large portion of the north Connemara coast searched.
With all involved satisfied that there was no vessel in distress in the area the Coast Guard stood down all assets and the volunteer crew returned to station.
Clifden RNLI Coxswain Alan Pryce said that the callout, “demonstrates how a well coordinated multi agency search can cover a very large area thoroughly and efficiently.”
“Thankfully there was no vessel in distress on this occasion but we remain ready to respond every time the pager goes.”
Speaking about EPIRBs Alan added, “Emergency beacons are a lifesaving piece of equipment, I would encourage any boat owners to check the service status and registration details of any beacons on board.”
“If you don’t have an EPIRB you should consider getting one because they will help search and rescue services to pinpoint the location of a vessel in distress.”
