EIGHTY-TWO people were rescued by the RNLI (Royal National Lifeboat Institution) in the county in 2013.
The RNLI revealed yesterday, Tuesday, that the two Enniskillen stations recorded the highest number of rescues, and call outs, in the north.
The two inland stations are on upper and lower Lough Erne, and with the north experiencing one of its hottest summers in recent times, the number of call-outs reflected that.
There were 56 call outs here, with Portrush the next busiest at 47.
A total of 255 call outs were recorded, with 245 people rescued throughout 2013 in Northern Ireland.
Reflecting on the year, Gareth Morrison, RNLI Divisional Operations Manager for Northern Ireland, said:
”2013 proved to be another busy year for the RNLI with an increase in both our lifeboat launches and rescues. Our lifeboat crews are highly trained and equipped to deal with the challenges they face and we are indebted to their dedication to respond when the need arises.”
Looking ahead, Mr Morrison reminded the public that irrespective of weather conditions, the water always presents a risk.
He recommended that people take care by following some simple safety tips: “We would remind water users to always wear a lifejacket, get the appropriate training, carry a means of calling for help, check engine and fuel, tell others where you are going and check weather and tides.”
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