Tobermory RNLI launched to assist diver in the Sound of Mull
Tobermory RNLI’s volunteer crew went to the aid of a diver showing signs of decompression sickness in the Sound of Mull on Monday July 1st 2019.
Shortly after 5pm, the UK Coastguard requested the launch of the Tobermory all-weather lifeboat to assist a diver showing signs of decompression sickness (‘the bends’) to the south of Lochaline in the Sound of Mull. The location of the casualty was within Oban RNLI’s usual operating area but as the Oban crew were attending a Mayday incident elsewhere, Tobermory RNLI were tasked.
The Elizabeth Fairlie Ramsey was launched at 5.15pm and made best speed down the Sound of Mull to meet with the dive boat at Lochaline, 30 minutes later. The casualty boarded the lifeboat with his dive buddies and was administered casualty care by the volunteer crew en route to Oban where he was passed into the care of the Scottish Ambulance Service.
The lifeboat returned to Tobermory where she was refuelled and made ready for service by 9pm.
Coxswain David McHaffie said: ‘This was a good example of working with one of our flank stations to provide cover throughout the Sound of Mull. We wish the casualty a speedy recovery.’
For further information, please contact
Leanne Blair, Tobermory RNLI Volunteer Deputy Lifeboat Press Officer on 07711549609 or [email protected]
Martin Macnamara, Regional Media Officer (Scotland), 07920 365929 or [email protected]
Gemma McDonald, Regional Media Manager (Scotland), 07826 900639 or [email protected]
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