SEARCH ONGOING AT PORTRUSH FOR OWNER OF FISHING RODS

A search is currently underway for the owner of two fishing rods found near rocks at the Blue Pool, Portrush.

A member of the public called Belfast Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre at just after 11am because they had spotted the two abandoned fishing rods. Because the coastguard cannot be sure that the owner hadn’t fallen in to the water they sent the Portrush Coastguard Rescue Team, the RNLI Lifeboat from Portrush and the Irish Coastguard helicopter based at Sligo to the scene. Despite an extensive search the owner of the fishing rods has not been found.
Belfast Coastguard Watch Manager Ian Murdock said:
“Until we find out that the owner of the fishing rods is safe and well we have to assume the worst. If you were fishing at the Blue Pool last night or early this morning please call the coastguard, particularly if you left some equipment behind.

“Rocks can be dangerous and slippery so please consider whether there is anywhere safer to fish. Because there is little to hold on to even a small wave can wash you off in to the sea and so the coastguard recommends that when fishing from rocks you wear a suitable floatation device, you check weather and tidal conditions and tell someone on shore where you are going and what time you plan to be back. If you don’t return on time ask them to call 999 and ask for the coastguard.
-Ends-

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