
Harwich RNLI work with Coastguard to assist an injured wind farm worker
Harwich RNLI collaborated with the Coastguard rescue helicopter to assist an injured wind farm worker, 20 miles offshore on Sunday 20 August.
In a rapid and coordinated rescue operation, the Harwich RNLI relief all-weather lifeboat (ALB), The Duke of Kent, launched into action at 2.59pm. The launch was requested when concerned reports reached the Coastguard regarding an engineer who had sustained facial injuries while engaged in work at the Gabbard Wind Farm, situated approximately 20 miles off Felixstowe.
Upon receiving the call, the lifeboat embarked on a mission to rendezvous with the windfarm vessel which had the injured engineer onboard and was en-route to Harwich. The primary objective was to provide essential medical aid to the casualty. Simultaneously, the Coastguard helicopter R163 was dispatched to the scene by the Coastguard, arriving swiftly ahead of the lifeboat to the windfarm vessel.
The proficient coordination between the aerial and maritime units ensured a seamless operation, underscoring the effectiveness of integrated search and rescue efforts. As the Coastguard helicopter reached the location the Harwich ALB stood by as the casualty was air lifted from the wind farm vessel. The casualty was safely transported to Ipswich Hospital, where they were met by Felixstowe Coastguards who had prepared the landing site, further emphasising the comprehensive network of support involved in such critical situations.
Once the injured engineer had been successfully evacuated and handed over to medical professionals, the Harwich lifeboat, having fulfilled its mission, returned to Harwich. The crew demonstrated their dedication not only in the rescue but also in the quick turnaround, as the vessel was refuelled and ready for service.
This incident serves as a testament to the unwavering commitment of both volunteers and full-time crew members aboard the Harwich relief all-weather lifeboat, reaffirming their pivotal role in ensuring the safety and well-being of those in distress at sea. The successful outcome of this operation highlights the value of collaboration, training, and rapid response in maritime rescue efforts, showcasing the critical role played by these dedicated individuals in safeguarding lives along the coast.
Notes to Editors
The RNLI is the Royal National Lifeboat Institution.
Harwich RNLI is based on The Quay, Harwich. The lifeboat station was founded in 1829 and the volunteer crew use an all-weather Severn class lifeboat (ALB) The Duke of Kent and B class lifeboat (ILB) Tierney, Harvey and Sonny Reid.
The Harwich all-weather lifeboat is crewed by both volunteer crew and a full time Coxswain and Mechanic.
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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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