Search for missing boarders
Weymouth RNLI Inshore lifeboat was launched at 5.11pm on Friday 9th August to reports of 2 foil boarders in trouble at the Northern entrance to Portland Harbour.
On scene at 5.28pm the volunteer crew started a search.
Shortly after this, Solent Coastguard reported that they had further reports that there was another person/boarder missing possibly at Overcombe Corner, off shore from the Oasis Cafe.
With the weather beginning to deteriorate with SSW force 6 winds gusting force 7, the all-weather lifeboat was tasked to join in and extend the search. It was launched at 5.33pm and was on scene at 5.56pm.
It was at this time that Solent Coastguard received information that the boarders were reported to have landed at Overcombe Corner unaware of the search for them that was going on.
When the information was confirmed at 6.00pm both lifeboats were stood down and returned to station, refuelled and made ready for the next shout.
It would seem that members of the public had reported that there were boarders in trouble when in fact although they had fallen off their boards due to the sea conditions they were not really in trouble.
RNLI message, Lessons to be learnt;
1- Thanks to the member of the public who when they saw someone in trouble rang 999 and asked for the Coastguard.
2- If you are going out to sea, especially in less than favourable conditions, ring the Coastguard and let them know what you are going to be doing and where you will be and when you expect to be ashore.
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.