The vessel had run aground in shallow water
Pic: Carrybridge Lifeboat Station
A baby and a dog and two adults have been rescued after their boat ran aground while sailing on an NI lake on Sunday.
Following a call from Belfast Coastguard, an RNLI in-shore lifeboat was launched from Carrybridge, Co Fermanagh shortly after 5.30pm.
Reports indicated the boat had broken down approximately one mile north of Knockninny marina on Lough Erne.
After the vessel was located in shallow water, two crew members swam to its position where they assessed the wellbeing of those on board.
All were safe and wearing lifejackets.
The boat was in a safe condition, but as it had run aground, the RNLI requested the assistance of a marine recovery company to refloat the vessel.
One of the adults, the baby and the dog were all transferred to the lifeboat to be returned to Carrybridge jetty, where they were met by a family member and the Lough Erne Coastguard Rescue Team.
The marine recovery company was able to refloat the vessel, which continued on its journey unassisted.
Stephen Scott, Volunteer Lifeboat Operations Manager at Carrybridge RNLI advised all boat users: ‘‘With people making the most of the good weather we would advise all boat users before setting out on your journey to please plan your route ahead using the relevant charts for the area making sure to check the navigational marks on the water to those shown on your chart.
“Have a means of calling for assistance if you find yourself in trouble and have lifejackets for all on board.
“If you see someone or something in trouble on the water or are in difficulties yourself the number to dial is: 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.’”