Largs RNLI shore crew strengthened as two crew members pass Tractor assessment
On Sunday (January 9) two more Tractor Drivers, Steven Kemp and Angus Fergusson, were assessed and passed out strengthening our existing volunteer shore crew team.
Tractor drivers play an essential role here at the station as the tractor is needed to launch and recover our Atlantic 85 lifeboat, the R.A. Wilson.
The role of the Tractor Driver is to take charge of the launch vehicle and rig during the launch and recovery of the ILB (Inshore Lifeboat) for services and exercises. The lifeboat cannot launch without a Tractor Driver and the tractor must be maintained and ready at all times.
Driving the tractor can be a challenging task especially when launching and recovering the boat in the dark and due to changeable weather and sea conditions.
Today’s assessment conducted by Warren Aitken, Trainer/Assessor from the RNLI, was a mixture of both theory and practical including elements such as PPE, safe operating procedures, hand signals, plant operation, winch operation and emergency stops.
Robert McKinnon, Deputy Launch Authority at Largs RNLI, said: ‘The role of Tractor Driver is essential here at the station. I am delighted to see the commitment of those involved and I am happy this adds to the station’s ability to be able to launch around the clock.’
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.