The volunteer Lough Swilly RNLI lifeboat was launched yesterday after a member of the public spotted a red flare in the area.
However, the incident turned out to be a false alarm and the crew returned to base.
An RNLI spokesperson commended the person who reported the sighting for their ‘good intent’, but warned that flares should only be used in emergencies.
“Our volunteers responded to a false alarm with good intent yesterday after a member of the public raised the alarm when a red flare was sighted off the coast,” they said.
“We would like to commend the member of the public who raised the alarm as we would always much rather launch, and find that all is well, than not launch at all.
“We would also remind everyone to be mindful that marine distress flares should only be used at sea where there is a vessel and its crew in immediate danger and their sighting will prompt a search and rescue operation.”
Should you see a red flare, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.
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