Both RNLI Torbay lifeboats launch to assist severely injured water-skier

The RNLI Torbay all-weather lifeboat crew was initially tasked by HM Coastguard at around 8.05pm to assist the casualty on the beach at Elberry Cove following an accident. On arrival, the volunteer crew used the Y-boat carried aboard the Severn Class Alec & Christina Dykes to access the beach, where the casualty was found to have a significant hip injury.

On examination, it was suspected that the casualty had sustained a dislocated hip and was in considerable pain. The RNLI Torbay inshore lifeboat was then additionally tasked with a paramedic on board, bringing additional strong pain relief. Once this had been administered, it was possible to transfer the injured water-skier into the waiting Devon Air Ambulance (which had landed on the beach) for onward transfer to Derriford Hospital in Plymouth, and urgent treatment.

• Photograph 1 shows the casualty being treated on the beach by RNLI volunteer crew, paramedic and HM Coastguard teams
• Photograph 2 shows the casualty being loaded aboard the Devon Air Ambulance on the beach at Elberry Cove

Photo credits: RNLI Torbay

Notes to editors

Torbay Lifeboat Station Key Facts:

• Torbay lifeboat station has been operating since 1866. To learn more about the station go to: https://rnli.org/find-my-nearest/lifeboat-stations/torbay-lifeboat-station
• Coxswain of Torbay Lifeboat is Mark Criddle
• Further information on Torbay Lifeboat Station’s local activities can be found at: http://www.torbaylifeboat.co.uk/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rnlitorbay
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/RNLITorbay

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For more information please telephone Victoria Bowen, RNLI Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer on 07794 043 428 - [email protected], or contact Amy Caldwell, RNLI Public Relations Manager (South) on 07920 818 807 - [email protected] or contact RNLI Public Relations on 01202 336789

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI charity 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 146,000 lives.

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