
Seahouses lifeboat responds to Kayakers 'Mayday' call
At 12.47pm on Sunday 22 January 2023, UK Coastguard requested Seahouses inshore lifeboat to launch, following a 'Mayday' call from a group of ten Kayakers off Seahouses.
By the time the fishing boat docked at Seahouses, the local Coastguard Rescue Team were also at the harbour. The casualty was very cold and was brought to the lifeboat station where the Coastguard diagnosed hypothermia and requested that she could use the station shower to re-warm her. They then requested an ambulance.
It was also difficult to count, using binoculars, as to how many kayakers there were in the main group. After some deliberation, the Coastguard requested the launch of the ILB to check on the welfare of the rest of the Kayakers. The ILB launched at 2.10pm. By the time it arrived near the first group they had managed to get ashore and the CG team in attendance confirmed they were all safe and well.
The ILB then went towards Bamburgh where the other kayaker was heading. The Kayaker had just landed when the ILB arrived and again he was safe and well. Apparently he had parked his car at Bamburgh and not with the rest of the group. The Coastguard Team then met with the kayakers from the group, who were given advice. The ILB was stood down at 2.35pm, and returned to station.
'This situation could have ended very differently, and we urge anyone going to sea in canoes or kayaks, to check the weather forecast beforehand. We do not wish to prevent anyone enjoying the coastline, but if in doubt, stay ashore. If you do go to sea, ensure you have the right safety equipment, with the ability to request assistance if needed, as this group did. Both the RNLI and HM Coastguard can provide advice if needed.'
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