West Kirby RNLI comes to the aid of stranded vessels

West Kirby RNLI volunteer crew was requested by HM Coastguard to launch at 1:53pm this afternoon following a call from one of the two casualties. The engine of the motor vessel had failed and the casualties, one onboard each of the vessels, had attempted to row to shore against an ebbing tide but had exhausted themselves in the process.

The casualties called 999 and asked for HM Coastguard for guidance and support, who tasked West Kirby RNLI to immediately launch. The local Wirral HM Coastguard unit arrived on the scene and were able to reach the casualties from the nearby beach. The two casualties were quickly transferred into West Kirby RNLI’s inshore lifeboat following an assessment of the risk of them being carried out to sea on the ebbing tide.

West Kirby RNLI’s inshore lifeboat returned the casualties and the vessels to Sandy Lane slipway adjacent to West Kirby Sailing Club. They were met by HM Coastguard, who provided further casualty care.

Speaking following the call out, Andrew Brown, West Kirby RNLI Lifeboat Deputy Launch Authority said: ‘The casualties made the correct decision when they called 999 and asked for the Coastguard as they were in an increasingly vulnerable position due to the ebbing tide. HM Coastguard and West Kirby RNLI Lifeboat worked closely together to ensure the safest outcome for the casualties while preventing any further risk.’

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.