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Harwich RNLI experiences unprecedented activity in August with multiple rescues

Lifeboats News Release

Harwich RNLI has reported one of its busiest starts Augusts on record, with the volunteer team responding to 12 requests from the Coastguard so far.

These calls have ranged from assisting broken-down motorboats and yachts to rescuing kayakers in distress. As of the writing of this release, the team's pagers have just sounded for a 13th time.

This surge in incidents serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of regular maintenance for all watercraft. The RNLI urges boaters to ensure their vessels are in good working condition to prevent mechanical failures that can lead to dangerous situations at sea.

Additionally, the RNLI strongly advises all individuals on the water to wear lifejackets or buoyancy aids. These devices are essential for keeping you afloat and can save lives in the event of an emergency.

In situations where individuals find themselves unexpectedly in the water, the RNLI recommends the "Float to Live" technique. Adam Prescott the lifeboat operations manager at Harwich said ‘The best way to float is to tilt your head back with your ears submerged. Try to relax and breathe normally. You can gently move your hands to help you stay afloat if you need to. Spread your arms and legs out to improve stability – and it's OK if your legs sink, we all float differently. Once your breathing is under control, call for help or swim to safety’

The Harwich RNLI is dedicated to providing lifesaving services and thanks the community for their continued support. The public is reminded to stay vigilant and prepared while enjoying coastal activities.



Notes to Editor

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) Albert Brown and B class lifeboat (ILB) Tierney, Harvey and Sonny Reid.



RNLI Media Contacts

For further information, please contact Adam Prescott, volunteer RNLI Lifeboat Press Officer 07881 286312 [email protected]

Or, the RNLI Press Office: [email protected]

RNLI/David Thurston

Albert Brown towing a rescue boat past Felixstowe Docks

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.

Learn more about the RNLI

For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. News releases, videos and photos are available on the News Centre.

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.

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