West Kirby RNLI called out to report of a ‘dinghy in distress’
West Kirby RNLI was tasked to launch at 10:34am following a phone call to HM Coastguard about a dinghy that appeared to be in distress near to Thurstaston Beach.
The volunteer crew of West Kirby RNLI Lifeboat quickly assembled and launched to investigate the location where the dinghy and helm had been seen capsized in the water by a concerned member of the public. Upon arrival at the scene, adjacent to “Sally’s Cottage” at Thurstaston, the volunteer crew were able to ascertain that a sailor had been carrying out a series of practice drills and did not require assistance. West Kirby RNLI were stood down and returned to the station.
Ed Rowland, West Kirby RNLI Deputy Launch Authority said: ‘The member of the public made the right decision about contacting us as someone submerged in the tide for too long at this time of year would be at risk from hypothermia. Never hesitate to phone 999 and ask for the Coastguard if anyone is in danger near to or on the water. We are happy to help.”
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.