Portumna Water Rescue Service

RCN :20063078

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Who We Are

Portumna Water Rescue Service is a dedicated voluntary organization committed to providing essential water safety and emergency response services to the Portumna community and surrounding waterways. Our highly trained volunteers are on call 24/7, ready to respond to water-related incidents, conduct search and rescue operations, and offer assistance on Lough Derg and the River Shannon. We are driven by a profound commitment to saving lives and promoting water safety through education and preventative measures, ensuring the well-Portumna for all who use its waters.

our mission

Our mission at Portumna Water Rescue Service is to safeguard lives and promote safety on Lough Derg and the River Shannon. We achieve this by providing rapid, professional, and compassionate emergency water rescue and recovery services. Through continuous training, community education, and proactive patrols, we strive to prevent accidents and respond effectively to water-related incidents, ensuring a safer aquatic environment for everyone in the Portumna area.

our vision

Our vision at Portumna Water Rescue Service is a community where everyone can safely enjoy Lough Derg and the River Shannon, free from the fear of water-related accidents. We aspire to be a leading example of water safety and rescue excellence, continuously enhancing our capabilities through training and technology. We envision a future where our proactive efforts in education and prevention significantly reduce incidents, fostering a culture of water safety and ensuring the well-being of all who live, work, and recreate on our waterways.

Our Programs & Service

Portumna Water Rescue Service is a volunteer-led organization providing critical services to ensure safety on Lough Derg and the River Shannon within the Portumna area. Our comprehensive programs and services include:
Emergency Water Search and Rescue: We operate a 24/7 emergency response service, deploying our trained volunteers and specialized equipment to respond to water-related incidents, including missing persons, vessels in distress, and other emergencies on the waterways. This includes both surface and underwater search capabilities.
Water Safety Education and Awareness: We are committed to preventing accidents before they happen. We deliver water safety talks, workshops, and educational programs to schools, community groups, and the general public, covering topics such as cold water shock, rip currents, basic rescue techniques ("Float to Live"), and general safe practices on and near water.
Patrols and Prevention: Our teams conduct regular patrols, particularly during peak seasons and events, to monitor high-risk areas, provide safety advice to water users, and deter unsafe practices. This proactive approach helps to identify and mitigate potential hazards.
Recovery Operations: In unfortunate circumstances, we conduct professional recovery operations for missing persons or objects in the water, working closely with other emergency services and authorities.
Community Support for Water-Based Events: We provide vital water safety support and an on-the-water presence for various community-based events, regattas, and festivals, ensuring the safety of participants and spectators.