Gaelic footballers saved in dramatic rescue after being swept out to sea by rip current off Irish coast
RNLI say rip currents can catch 'even the most experienced beach goers out'
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A group of eight Gaelic footballers were saved in a dramatic rescue after they were swept out to sea by a rip current off the Irish coast.
The players, reportedly part of the Fermanagh GAA minor team, are believed to have entered the water off Tullan Strand, Bundoran, to cool off after a training session when they got into difficulties.
Strong rip currents then began to carry some players out to sea and others into rocks.
Bystanders alerted the coast guard, who dispatched a lifeboat and helicopter to the scene.
Surfers, one of whom was reported to be a RNLI crew member, also entered the water to help out the stricken group.
Ambulances were called and the causalities were given first aid. Some were later taken to Sligo University Hospital as a precaution.
Responding to the incident, James Cassidy of Bundoran RNLI said: "We would remind locals and visitors alike that Tullan Strand and particularly the area along the cliffs is notorious for rip currents and under currents and is really not suitable for swimming.
"Rips are strong currents running out to sea which can catch even the most experienced beach-goers out.
"Bundoran's main beach is supervised by lifeguards all summer long and provides the best option for safe, supervised swimming during the summer period.
"Should you get caught in a rip, the best advice is to stay calm and don't panic. Swim parallel to the beach until free of the rip, then make for shore."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments