Brighton RNLI issue safety warning after jet ski rescue
Brighton lifeboat crew is reminding people how to stay safe on a jet ski after a rescue by the West Pier.
The RNLI volunteer crew were on a training exercise last night when they spotted a jet ski heading south with no-one on it.
The crew cut the engine after confirming no one was onboard and set out to find the driver.
They soon found a conscious male, wearing a buoyancy aid. He had come off the jet ski at 40mph.
He was taken back to the Lifeboat Station in Brighton Marina and assessed. He was also given some safety advice for future, which included always wearing a kill cord and having a means of calling for help on you.
The kill cord is designed to ‘kill’ a boat engine in case the driver goes overboard.
Roger added: ‘This is exactly what we train for and I'm proud of the team recognising that there was something amiss with the jet ski and quickly finding the rider.
'This incident highlights the importance of a fully operational kill cord being on
board a watercraft and used correctly.
‘The RNLI recommend that before any watercrafts that are equipped with a kill cord are taken to sea, the operator should deliberately operate the kill cord to confirm it is operating correctly.’
Here are the RNLI's key safety messages when using any personal watercraft:
- Always wear a personal flotation device
- Stay with your craft in an emergency, it will keep you afloat and easy to locate
- Make sure you are also wearing suitable clothing for the forecasted conditions. Always carry a means of calling for help on your person
- You must be able to reach it easily in an emergency. If it can’t be reached, it’s no help
- Develop your skills. Contact your national governing body, club or watersports activity centre to find out which training is best for your needs
- Tell someone else where you’re going and when you’ll be back. They can raise the alarm with the coastguard by calling 999 or 112 if you are overdue
- Always check the forecast and tide times. Don’t get caught out by the conditions
- Ensure you have enough fuel for your journey
- Always check your equipment. In particular, make sure the drainage plug is in place. Always wear a kill cord if fitted and carry a spare
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 142,700 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.