Skerries Coast Guard
Irish Coast Guard • An Garda Cósta
Make a real difference in your community. No prior experience is needed — we provide all the training.
Volunteering with Skerries Coast Guard is one of the most rewarding things you can do. You become part of a tight-knit search and drone team that responds when people need help the most — along the coastline and open ground of North County Dublin.
As a volunteer, you'll receive world-class training in search and rescue, first aid, drone operations, and more — all funded and delivered by the Irish Coast Guard. You'll gain skills that last a lifetime while giving back to your local community.
Our volunteers come from all walks of life: teachers, nurses, tradespeople, students, and retirees. What unites us is a commitment to helping others and a love of the sea.
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds. Here's what we look for:
Applicants must be aged 18 or over. There is no upper age limit — we value experience and maturity.
You should live or work within a reasonable distance of Skerries to be able to respond to call-outs in a timely manner.
Volunteers should be able to commit to regular training sessions (typically weekly) and if available to respond to calls outs.
A reasonable level of physical fitness is required. You don't need to be an athlete, but you should be fit enough to work outdoors in challenging conditions.
Volunteers undergo background screening. We look for reliability, teamwork, and a genuine commitment to community service.
A full, clean driving licence is required so you can respond to call-outs and operate service vehicles when needed.
Submit the form below or contact us directly. We'll invite you to an informal open night at the station to meet the team and learn more.
Complete a formal application form. You'll undergo Garda vetting (background check) as required by the Irish Coast Guard.
Complete the IRCG Volunteer Induction Programme — a structured course covering search and rescue fundamentals, first aid, radio communications, and team skills.
You'll join the unit on a probationary basis, attending training nights and call-outs under the supervision of experienced volunteers. Quickly responding to real emergencies.
After completing probation and initial qualifications, you become a fully operational member of Skerries Coast Guard.
Fill in the form and we'll be in touch within a few days to arrange a chat.