RNLI Longhope called to assist Thurso volunteer crew in kayak rescue
Longhope all weather lifeboat Helen Comrie was launched on Sunday at 4.22pm when the volunteer crew were called on to assist their colleagues from RNLI Thurso with an incident involving a group of kayakers in difficulty near Duncansby Head.
Longhope crew were stood down and the Helen Comrie was returned to the station and refuelled ready for service again by 4.50pm.
Thankfully, all those involved were able to get ashore with the help of the coastguard & lifeboat teams who were alerted by an observant member of the public. However, incidents like this serve as a reminder to anyone thinking of venturing onto open water to know the risks and go prepared. If you going out onto open water, always wear a lifejacket and take a mobile (in a waterproof case) so you can contact the Coastguard (999 or 112) in case you get into difficulty. If you are regularly out on the water, invest in a personal locator beacon (PLB) which will allow you to send a distress signal even when out of mobile range.
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.