RNLI rescues girl from near-death experience after being swept out to sea – Global News

A dramatic rescue unfolded in Dun Laoghaire, Ireland, as a lifeboat volunteer jumped into the sea to save a young girl who was struggling to stay afloat. The heroic act was captured on video, showing Andrew Sykes and the RNLI lifeboat team swiftly reaching the girl and pulling her out of the water within minutes of receiving the emergency call.

The young girl had been swept out to sea from the east pier of Dun Laoghaire Harbour during stormy conditions caused by Storm Kathleen. Despite the challenging high winds and large waves, Mr. Sykes managed to reach the girl and bring her to safety. He revealed that pockets of air trapped under her coat played a crucial role in keeping her afloat until help arrived.

After being rescued, the girl was taken to the hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. The Coast Guard, RNLI, Garda, ambulance service, and Dublin fire brigade all played a role in the operation, with the Coast Guard’s Rescue 116 helicopter also deployed.

Politicians and officials praised the efforts of the rescuers, with Fine Gael TD Jennifer Carroll MacNeill commending their “extraordinary efforts” and Fianna Fail TD Cormac Devlin describing them as “heroic.” The community rallied around the young girl, expressing hope for her quick recovery.

As Storm Kathleen caused power outages for thousands of customers across the island, the rescue operation served as a reminder of the bravery and dedication of emergency responders in the face of adversity.