Swanage inshore lifeboat launches to a snappy rescue
UK HM Coastguard received a call for concern regarding a small inflatable drifting some way offshore east of Peveril Ledge.
The ILB launched and contacted Swanage National Coastwatch (NCI) volunteers who were able to provided details of the small object that they had sighted and had continued to observe.
At just before 3pm the ILB located an inflatable crocodile which was recovered from a position approximately 2 nautical miles east of Peveril Ledge. No-one was found to be associated with the inflatable and the ILB returned to station.
Back on our slipway, just a few minutes later, a young visitor to the station became the proud owner of a small, bright green, inflatable crocodile.
Helmsman Gavin Steeden said 'With the great weather we have had lots of people are enjoying time on the beach, but it is important to remember to consider the conditions when using an inflatable to ensure users always stay close to the shore and do not go out of their depth'.
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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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.