Penarth lifeboat assist in medical evacuation

The larger Atlantic lifeboat, with a crew of four, was asked to support HM Coastguard Rescue Helicopter 187, which is based at St Athan.

A 32 foot yacht, with two people on board, reported that they were in need of medical assistance. The yacht was near Lavernock point and the lifeboat was able to transfer a crew member on to the yacht on arrival.

The helicopter paramedic was winched down to the lifeboat and then transferred to the yacht. The casualty was assessed and then winched into the helicopter and transported to hospital with landing assistance provided by the coastguard rescue team.

The Penarth crew then assisted the remaining sailor on board the yacht, which was struggling to make progress against the outgoing spring high tide and also suffering engine difficulties. The yacht was placed under tow and taken to Barry Dock where it was placed on a secure mooring.

A great example of multiagency working to ensure that the casualty received the most timely treatment – all the crew wish the casualty a speedy recovery.

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.