Three people on stranded boat towed to safety by Fowey lifeboat volunteers
On Friday August 12 the coastguard put out a Pan Pan broadcast for any vessels in the vicinity to assist a 28’ yacht which had broken down and was becalmed 1.5 miles south of Polperro. There were three people on board.
As there were no vessels available to assist, the coastguard paged Fowey and the all-weather lifeboat was launched at 3.45pm.
In slight sea conditions and with little wind the yacht was quickly located by Fowey’s volunteer crew, Carl Gudmunsen, Warren Sallis, Oli Luck and Martin Jezard. Lifeboat cox, Jonathan Pritchard, decided that the safest option was to tow the casualty vessel back to Fowey. The tow line was established and the three people and their yacht were towed safely into Fowey harbour 75 minutes later.
Towing stranded boats is one of the most common reasons Fowey lifeboats get called out. Fortunately most people heed the safety advice, as in this instance, and carry a means of calling for help. When calling for help dial 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard. Describe your location, the number of people and craft in your group, describe the problem and give any relevant additional information. It is also important to ensure that your engine is well maintained and that adequate tools and spares are carried onboard.
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.