
First launch of 2024 for Gravesend RNLI
HM Coastguard requested the launch of Gravesend lifeboat Thursday 4 January at 7:46pm to multiple 999 calls for sightings of flares.
Gravesend RNLI’s Thames Commander Andy Colley said, ‘The location given was close to the lifeboat station, once we arrived on scene we could confirm flares were being used’
‘It quickly became apparent thankfully nobody was in danger, fortunately the array of flares were being used as part of a training session.’
All flares can be a safety hazard and are to be used with much caution following on packaging advise, also guidance should be followed to dispose if expired or not required.
Andy added, ‘understandably the public were right to call 999 and alert the Coastguard’.
The lifeboat was stood down at 7:57pm, refuelled and was made ready for service by 8:00pm.
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.