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Newquay RNLI rescue occupants of capsized sailing dinghy

Lifeboats News Release

At 4.22pm on Saturday 1 July, Newquay RNLI Lifeboat Volunteers received a pager alert and were tasked to assist the occupants of a small sailing dinghy which had capsized in the sea near to Tolcarne.

Newquay RNLI rescue occupants of capsized sailing dinghy

RNLI/Ann-Marie Dale

Newquay RNLI rescue occupants of capsized sailing dinghy
RNLI Lifeguards Newquay based on Towan Beach raised the alarm after seeing the small boat upturned, and following advice from HM Coastguard, the skipper of the sailing dinghy allowed Newquay RNLI Lifeboat volunteers to tow the dinghy back to the safety of the harbour. The two occupants of the dinghy were transported back to shore in the charity's Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat, Uncle Johnny.

With a north westerly wind and 2-3m swell, the skipper experienced some difficulty in keeping the small boat upright. By accepting advice from the Coastguard and assistance from Newquay RNLI Lifeboats and Newquay RNLI Lifeguards, both of the men were returned to land safely.

Around 140 people die by accident in UK and Irish coastal waters each year. Males over 15 are the most at risk.

Cornwall is one of 11 areas that account for 51% of accidental coastal deaths.

When out sailing the RNLI recommends:

  • Wearing a life jacket or buoyancy aid.
  • Check the forecast and tide times.
  • Carry a means of calling for help and keep it on you at all times.

If you find yourself in danger in the water #floattolive

If you see someone in trouble at the coast, dial 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard.

#FloatToLive
#rnli
#newquayrnli
#SavingLivesAtSea

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.