LIVE: Person rescued off Waterford coast after climbing cliffs to avoid high tide
The incident occurred on the Doneraile cliffs in Tramore
A person was rescued off the coast of County Waterford this morning after climbing up a cliff face to avoid the incoming high tide.
The Tramore Lifeboat RNLI detailed the rescue operation in a post on social media.
An RNLI spokesperson said: “Tramore Lifeboat RNLI launched this morning at the request of the Irish Coast Guard after lifeguards on Tramore Beach reported a person in difficulty on the Doneraile cliffs close to high tide.
“Helm Fergal McGrath, along with crew members Conor McCarthy, Nóirín Phelan and Will Palmer, made best speed to the scene on Tramore’s D class lifeboat.”
They went on to outline how the casualty was brought to safety by the volunteers.
“On arrival, they were joined by a lifeguard from Tramore Beach, who had paddled out to the scene.
“The crew found the casualty had climbed half way up the cliffs avoiding the incoming tide.
“Carefully manoeuvring the lifeboat alongside the rocks, the crew assisted the casualty safely aboard before returning to Tramore Pier. The casualty sustained minor injuries.”
Speaking after the callout, Tramore RNLI helm Fergal McGrath thanked the beach lifeguards for raising the alarm so quickly.
Mr McGrath said: “Everyone worked well together and, thankfully, the casualty was brought safely ashore.
“A rising tide and unstable cliffs can quickly catch people out, particularly if they're unfamiliar with the area.
“Whether you're here in Tramore or anywhere else along the coast, keep an eye on the tide, stay well back from cliff edges and, if something doesn't look right, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.”
The lifeboat returned to its station where it was recovered by the volunteer shore crew and washed down and prepared for its next use.