Exmouth RNLI Lifeboat assists jet skier in difficulty

The lifeboat was launched a few moments later by RNLI volunteer shore crew, Karl Halford, Ed Steele and Doug Wright. It was manned by crew members, Harry Griffin (Helm), Steve Hockings-Thompson and Andy Stott. With the assistance of Exmouth NCI, who had visual contact with the jet ski, the lifeboat was quickly on scene with the casualty vessel at 3.06pm. It was established that the jet ski had stalled and the vessel was taking on water.

The lifeboat established a tow with the jet ski and it was taken to a point off Holcombe where the vessel and its sole occupant were handed over to Teignmouth RNLI ‘B’ Class B-809 The Two Annes and towed to land. No damage was caused to the jet ski and no injuries to its rider.

Lifeboat Helm, Harry Griffin said, 'This was an unfortunate incident where the rider of the jet ski had adhered to all the recommended safety precautions - he was attached to a 'kill cord' on the vessel, wearing a lifejacket and had other safety equipment including adequate communications but the jet ski, that had recently been serviced, suffered a technical failure that resulted in the breakdown. Fortunately, with the help of our colleagues in Exmouth National Coastwatch, we were able to pinpoint the casualty location and arrive on scene very quickly. I'm pleased the outcome was successful and would like to thank our RNLI colleagues at Teignmouth for their swift response in this joint operation.'

On completion of the assignment the lifeboat made its way back to Exmouth Lifeboat Station where it was back ready for service by 4.30pm.

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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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