
Littlestone RNLI tasked to help rescue casualty after fall on rocks
RNLI Littlestone volunteer crew were tasked by HM Coastguard Romney Marsh on Monday 11th September at 8.30 am to assist with the recovery of an injured person after a fall on the rocks at Dymchurch Redoubt.
RNLI Littlestone volunteer crew were tasked by HM Coastguard Romney Marsh on Monday 11th September at 8.30 am to assist with the recovery of an injured person after a fall on the rocks at Dymchurch Redoubt. The Coastguard Coastal Rescue team recommended a recovery by sea due to the challenging terrain which made it difficult to safely carry the casualty to the road. Our crew immediately launched the Jean McIvor Atlantic 85 lifeboat from Littlestone RNLI and made their way to the scene to assist the casualty who was being helped by the Coastguard. Weather conditions at the time were described as good with calm seas and close to a high tide.
The team assessed the casualty before moving the stretcher to the lifeboat for recovery back to the slipway at Littlestone RNLI station. Once back on dry land the casualty was transferred into the care of the South East Coast Ambulance Service and taken to hospital for further treatment. This rescue required skill from the RNLI volunteer crew, and particularly the lifeboat commander given the changing tide and the need to transport the casualty from the rocks and into the lifeboat. The operation was a success due to the joint efforts of all involved.
Speaking following the call out, Matt Crittenden, Littlestone RNLI Lifeboat Operational Manager said: ‘Thankfully this shout had a very positive outcome and is the sort of operation our volunteer lifeboat crew train for on a regular basis. The crew worked closely with HM Coast Guard and the South East Coast Ambulance Service and this was a good example of joint work. We wish the casualty well following their ordeal today. We would encourage anyone who gets in trouble or sees someone else in difficulty, to dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.’
Dean Miller, who was the Commander of the Jean McIvor lifeboat used in Monday's recue, reminded the public that 'If you are heading to the coast during this spell of good weather and find yourself in difficulty in the water, please remember to lie on your back, relax and Float to Live.’
RNLI Float to live advice:
-Tilt your head back with ears submerged
-Relax and try to control your breathing
-Move your hands to help you stay afloat
-Once you are over the initial shock, call for help or swim to safety
-In an emergency call 999 or 112– if you are at sea or on the beach ask for the coastguard, or if inland ask for the Fire and Rescue Service.
· Further information on Float to Live here https://rnli.org/safety/float
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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