Bundoran RNLI volunteers were called out this morning following reports that several people got into difficulty at Tullan Strand in Bundoran.
A group of football players, who are believed to be from Fermanagh, entered the water to cool down following a training session on the strand.
However, the strong currents carried a number of them out to sea and into the rocks.
The Coast Guard were informed immediately by onlookers and within minutes the Bundoran Lifeboat and the Sligo based Rescue 118 helicopter were on the scene to assist the swimmers.
Incredibly, brave surfers, one of whom is a crew member with Bundoran RNLI, entered the water with their boards and assisted the footballers to safety.
The lifeboat volunteers ensured that all casualties were out of the water. Rescue 118 landed on the strand and also ensured that all of the casualties were accounted for.
Eight of the football players received first aid treatment the lifeboat crew. Some of the players were bruised, and some of them had swallowed sea water before their rescue.
Fortunately none of the injuries sustained are life-threatening, with a number of players being taken to Sligo University Hospital as a precaution.
Following this morning’s incident, Bundoran RNLI are reminding people to respect the water and to be mindful of the potential dangers; particularly the strong, and potentially fatal, rip currents that can quickly sweep you out to sea.
Bundoran RNLI helm James Cassidy said; “Thankfully everyone is safe this afternoon and we would like to wish the group well following what must have been a frightening experience.
“We would remind locals and visitors alike that Tullan Strand and particularly the area along the cliffs is notorious for rip currents and under currents and is really not suitable for swimming.
“Rips are strong currents running out to sea which can catch even the most experienced beachgoers out. They can take you from the shallows very quickly and leave you out of your depth.
“Bundoran’s main beach is supervised by lifeguards all summer long and provides the best option for safe, supervised swimming during the summer period.
“Should you get caught in a rip, the best advice is to stay calm and don’t panic. If you can stand, wade. Don’t try to swim. If you have an inflatable or board, keep hold of it to help you float. Raise your hand and shout for help loudly. Don’t swim directly against the rip or you will get exhausted. Swim parallel to the beach until free of the rip, then make for shore,” he advised.
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