Exmouth RNLI volunteers called out on service in Storm Ophelia

Crew volunteers were on scene near the Exe Sailing Club within 12 minutes in Force 6 conditions. The local man was attempting to secure his boat onto a mooring after the storm increased. A damaged propeller, along with strong waves and wind caused difficulties in positioning the boat, so a Crew volunteer was put on board to secure the cabin cruiser successfully. The casualty requested to stay on board. Because of the challenging conditions in front of the lifeboat station, recovery took place at Exe Sailing Club.

Helm, David Preece said:

‘It seems the casualty had reached his boat from near the railway line as he was concerned for his property and wanted to protect it in the increasing weather conditions. There was always a danger he would find himself unexpectedly in the water and wasn’t wearing a lifejacket. We would advise boat owners to check their moorings are secure in all weathers.

British Transport Police and National Police Air Service (Exeter) were also tasked following calls from concerned members of the public.

Notes to Editors

Photos:

PR171017 Volunteers launching on service in Storm Ophelia (credit: John Ford)

PR171017 Recovery at Exe Sailing Club (credit: Exmouth RNLI)

For more information please telephone Emma Tarling, Exmouth RNLI Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer on 07837 810082 or email: [email protected].

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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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