Margate RNLI investigates reports of red flares
Margate’s RNLI all-weather lifeboat was called out late last night (Thursday 10 August) following reports of red flares.
UK Coastguard received two reports from members of the public of red flares close inshore off Westgate-on-Sea. The all-weather lifeboat together with the local coastguard rescue team were tasked to investigate.
The lifeboat carried out an extensive visual and electronic search between Margate and Minnis Bay and out to the Margate Sands using both radar and illuminating parachute flares. After around three hours nothing had been found and with no reports of overdue boats or any other information the search was called off, the call considered a false alarm with good intent.
Ian Lowe, deputy launching authority said: ‘Thanks are due to the members of the public who raised the alarm. The crew would sooner investigate a false alarm than not respond to what could be a genuine distress situation.’
RNLI Media contacts
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Peter Barker, RNLI Margate Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer 07974 064304 [email protected]
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Tim Ash, RNLI Public Relations Manager (London/East/South East) 0207 6207426, 07785 296252 [email protected]
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For enquiries outside normal business hours, contact the RNLI duty press officer on 01202 336789
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