Sheerness RNLI volunteers assist two after tender capsizes on River Medway
Volunteer lifeboat crew were launched after two people were left in the water when their tender capsized on the River Medway.
The station’s all-weather relief lifeboat, Eric’s Legend, launched at 8.40pm on Tuesday, March 17, following reports the pair had been aboard a moored 25ft sailing yacht in Upnor Reach earlier in the evening.
As they attempted to return ashore, their small tender capsized, leaving them in the water for around 30 minutes.
They were able to recover themselves back onto their yacht before the arrival of the lifeboat.
Once on scene, the volunteer crew assessed the situation and transferred both casualties safely to Chatham Marina pontoon.
They were then passed into the care of the Sheppey Coastguard Rescue Team.
The lifeboat was then stood down.
Sheerness RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager, Alan Carr, said: 'This incident highlights just how quickly things can go wrong on the water, even during what might seem like a short and routine journey.
'Wearing a lifejacket can make a vital difference if you end up in the water, and we would always encourage people to ensure they also have a reliable means of calling for help, such as a VHF radio or a mobile phone in a waterproof pouch.'
Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,700 lives.
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