A MOBILE phone proved to be a vital lifeline for a man who became trapped in marshes while working yesterday.
He was in marshlands close to the River Fergus, Clarecastle, Co Clare, where he was undertaking ground investigation works for a Cork-based geotechnical firm.
The technician, in his 30s, arrived at the location at about 8am and crossed a field before climbing over a mud bank to gain access to the marsh. Carrying some heavy surveying equipment, he soon began to sink into the marsh and was submerged up to his waist when eventually rescued.
Two units of the fire brigade and emergency medical services travelled to the scene. Fire crews were in constant contact with the trapped man by phone so that he could lead them to his location which was not visible from the road.
Rescue crews quickly located the man who was trapped and still sinking.
Rescuers believe the man had been stuck for at least half an hour before calling the emergency services. “He was using a pole to try and get out but he kept sinking even more.”