Emergency services were rushed to the scene after a child was swept out to sea in Co Waterford.
The incident happened in the seaside town of Tramore shortly after 5pm today.
The Tramore RNLI, alongside the Tramore Coastguard and Rescue 117, attended the scene after the boy's friends raised the alarm by calling 999.
Lifeboat crews found the youngster before rescuing them from the water and bringing them back to the pier.
Officials said that he was then handed over to the Waterford Ambulance.
And the local RNLI sent a stark warning to members of the public heading to the seaside in the coming months.
They wrote on Facebook: "Please be cautious when swimming at this time of year.
"Please swim parallel to shore and within your limits.
"Ensure an adult is supervising children in the water.
"Be aware of shifting sands and levels on the beach.
"Talk to your family about water safety.
"If you think someone is in difficulty in the water please dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard. Every second counts."
