Kirkwall RNLI lifeboat in search for upturned kayak
Kirkwall RNLI Volunteer crew launched to conduct a search after reports of upturned kayak and possible person in the water near the coast at Deerness on Wednesday afternoon (23 September) were reported to the UK Coastguard.
When rounding Mull Head, Deerness the lifeboat crew began searching the area and were advised by the Coastguard team onshore to head to a position approximately one mile east as they had the object visible.Once the lifeboat arrived on scene appx 1.4 nautical miles north of the Horse of Copinsay they discovered a large dead Risso Dolphin floating on the surface which from a distance resembled an upturned hull.
This was a false alarm with good intent and we would always advise the public if they see or suspect anything around the coast or on the sea to dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.
The lifeboat returned to station was refuelled and ready for service again by 5.40pm.
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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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