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Walmer RNLI volunteers undergo specialist training
Under the RNLI’s Operational Competence Framework (OCF) structured training programme, all volunteer crew wishing to go afloat must complete a mandatory Crew Emergencies Procedures (CEP) course.
This week, two Walmer RNLI volunteers, Babs Melles and Freya Emmerson were among ten other crew members from around the coast who undertook the two day residential training at the RNLI College in Poole.
The course combines practical training in the College’s pool, and theory-based training to develop essential emergency response, survival, capsize escape and life raft skills. It helps ensure that crews have the skills, knowledge and confidence to save lives at sea when it matters most. The course must be retaken every five years.
Both Freya, on her first visit, and Babs on his revalidation passed the training successfully. Other Walmer volunteers will attend their own revalidation training in the coming months.
Speaking on their return Freya said: ‘The training, although tiring was invaluable and will allow me to go afloat with confidence.’
Babs added: It was good to meet with volunteers from different stations around the country and talk and learn from shared experiences.’
RNLI Media Contacts
Christopher Winslade, Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer for Walmer RNLI 01304 374475 [email protected]
Stella Sims, RNLI Regional Communications Manager for London and South East England, 07483 316675, [email protected]
Sam Haddad, RNLI Regional Communications Manager for London and South East England, 01202 137713, [email protected]
Julie Rainey, RNLI Regional Communications Lead for London and South East England, 07827 358256, [email protected]
RNLI Press Office, 01202 336789, [email protected]
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.
Learn more about the RNLI
For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, TikTok and YouTube. News releases, videos and photos are available on the News Centre.
Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries
Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.