‘Significant increase’ in east Antrim coastal emergencies as lockdown eases

The Coastguard service is appealing to the public to take care on or near the sea following a rise in incidents around east Antrim this month.
By The Newsroom
Published 23rd Jun 2020, 18:12 BST
Search and rescue service.Search and rescue service.
Search and rescue service.

In a statement issued on social media today (Tuesday), Portmuck Coastguard said “now that lockdown is easing we have had a significant increase” in call-outs.

In recent weeks, the statement continued, the service has responded to the following:

June 8 (01.05hrs), person in danger on cliff at Blackhead;

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June 13 (22.11hrs), broken down boat off Whitehead, towed into Carrick Marina by Bangor Lifeboat;

June 20 (14.12hrs), report of a paraglider in trouble near Ballygally, area searched with nothing found;

June 22 (22.09hrs), person in the water at Carrickfergus Harbour.

The Islandmagee-based search and rescue team added: “Thankfully on these occasions all persons involved are safe and well.

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“If you are going to the beach or afloat please take care, off shore winds will blow out inflatables and kayaks.

“If you see anyone in difficulties, Call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”

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Related topics:Antrim