Casualty with suspected broken leg rescued from beach by Larne RNLI and Coastguard

A casualty with a suspected broken leg was rescued from a beach earlier today (Monday 25 May) after HM Coastguard Larne and the volunteer crew of Larne RNLI launched a joint emergency response.

The incident unfolded in a difficult coastal location where access for ambulance crews was limited and changing tidal conditions created additional pressure for rescuers working on scene.

Coastguard teams arrived quickly and worked alongside the RNLI crew to stabilise the casualty before making the decision to evacuate the injured person by lifeboat.

The casualty was then transferred onto a nearby sandy section of the beach where ambulance access was easier and safer as the tide began to turn.

Joint rescue operation launched as tide created added risk

HM Coastguard Larne said the operation required close coordination between emergency responders due to the location of the casualty and the risk posed by incoming tides.

The use of the lifeboat allowed crews to move the injured person away from the more inaccessible area before onward medical treatment could take place.

Emergency services have not released further details about how the injury happened, but coastguard teams said they wished the casualty a speedy recovery following the incident.

The rescue once again highlights the challenges emergency crews can face along Northern Ireland’s coastline, particularly during periods of warmer weather when beaches and coastal areas become busier with walkers, swimmers, paddleboarders and water users.

Cold water warning issued despite warm weather

Following the incident, HM Coastguard Larne used the opportunity to remind the public that sea conditions remain dangerous even during spells of warm weather.

The service warned that water temperatures are still cold enough to pose a serious risk, particularly if people fall unexpectedly into the sea.

Coastguard teams are urging anyone using the water for leisure activities to take basic safety precautions before heading out.

Advice issued by the coastguard includes:

• Always wear a life jacket or personal flotation device (PFD) when using any craft on the water or when fishing from the shoreline

• Ensure motorised vessels are properly serviced and safe before use

• Carry a reliable means of contacting emergency services, including a mobile phone or VHF radio on Channel 16

• In any coastal emergency, dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard

HM Coastguard Larne also said safety check cards for vessels are available through Larne Coastguard Station for anyone requiring additional guidance before heading onto the water.

Busy season ahead for coastal emergency crews

The rescue comes as emergency services prepare for increased activity around Northern Ireland’s coast during the late spring and summer months.

With improving weather often drawing larger crowds to beaches and harbours across the north coast and County Antrim shoreline, rescue crews regularly warn that conditions can change rapidly even on calm-looking days.

Officials continue to stress that preparation, safety equipment and early emergency calls can make a critical difference during incidents at sea or along the coast.

For any emergency on or near the coast, members of the public should call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.