
Fowey lifeboat launched to rescue family and dog
On May 21 Fowey volunteer lifeboat crew launched the all-weather lifeboat at 12.04pm. They were just returning to their mooring after their regular Sunday morning training session when the coastguard requested that they launch to assist a 16’ motor boat with five people and a dog onboard.
It was a clear day with excellent visibility and a light north easterly breeze of 4-6 knots. The lifeboat arrived at the scene just off Mevagissey at 12.25pm to find the family and the dog stranded in the motor boat.
The crew found that the boat had suffered from mechanical failure and that the VHF was not working. They set up a tow and towed the boat back to Fowey, with the family of 5 and dog remaining on the boat. The boat was safely returned to a pontoon in Fowey harbour, where the family arranged to have it sent home on a trailer.
Fowey Lifeboat Operations Manager, Chris Ogg said: 'Mechanical and machinery failure is one of the largest causes of RNLI call outs. Always ensure that your engine is well maintained and carry tools and spares onboard to fix any problems that might occur.'
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.