Poole and Swanage lifeboats search in rough conditions
Poole and Swanage lifeboats search in rough conditions
Lifeboats News Release
Poole and Swanage RNLI lifeboats were requested to launch today (Tuesday 8 November) after a member of the public reported sighting someone potentially in difficulty in the water.
As winds were gusting up to 45mph, Poole Atlantic 85 lifeboat and Swanage all-weather lifeboat proceeded in rough conditions to search the area of Boscombe Pier.
Poole and Southbourne Coastguard teams were also tasked to search the shoreline by foot and pier along with air support from the police helicopter.
Both Swanage and Poole lifeboats searched in the rough seas in the vicinity of Boscombe Pier as they dealt with strong winds and rough sea.
Poole RNLI volunteer helm Ed Davies said: ‘Conditions today were rough with large breaking waves and spray, it was certainly challenging conditions but this is when our training comes into its own.’
After over an hour searching and nothing untoward found, both lifeboats and other assets were stood down.
Ed added; ‘Thankfully this was a call with good intent and nobody was reported missing. We urge those visiting the coast in rough conditions to be mindful of their surroundings as you could easily get swept into the sea. If you do see anyone in danger, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.’
Due to the conditions, Swanage Lifeboat shadowed Poole Lifeboat back to the main channel to Poole Harbour with the lifeboats returning to station at 2pm.
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.
