Tramore RNLI and Rescue 117 tend to casualty at well-known Waterford cove

Members of Tramore RNLI were tasked to the scene of an incident at a well-known County Waterford coastal area at the weekend following reports of a casualty on the rocks.

The incident occurred at Newtown Cove on Saturday, August 31, and the local volunteer lifeboat crew received reports of a casualty in need of medical assistance.

In on online post outlining details of the incident Tramore RNLI said that under the helm of Dave O'Hanlon with Fergal McGrath, Nóirín Phelan and Dave McGrath on board, the lifeboat arrived on scene minutes after launching. 

"Casualty carers Fergal and Dave McGrath were transferred onto the rocks to assess and attend to the casualty who was being assisted by friends and members of the public," said the RNLI in the post.

Tramore Coast Guard Unit and Rescue 117 were also tasked to Newtown and Guillamene Swimming Club and the RNLI reported that the area was very busy with swimmers and fishermen at the time, enjoying the sunshine: "The teams worked together to ensure swimmers left the water and requested onlookers and fishermen to move to safety to allow the helicopter to commence manouveres."

Due to the nature of the person's injury and "the challenging position of the casualty on the rocks" a decision was made to lower a winchman to treat the casualty at the scene. Following initial treatment the person was winched from the rocks by the crew of Rescue 117 and transferred to University Hospital Waterford.

"This was a textbook multi-agency response with good team work and communication from all involved," said Tramore RNLI.

They also thanked the members of the public in Newtown Cove who assisted in the operation and to everyone who ensured the area was made safe. They also wished the casualty a speedy recovery. If anyone sees someone in trouble along the Waterford coastal areas they should ring 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.