Mudeford RNLI responds to medical emergency on fishing charter
On Sunday 30 November at 9.48am the Mudeford RNLI volunteer crew were called into action following reports of a medical emergency aboard a charter fishing vessel returning at speed to Mudeford Quay.
The alarm was raised when Mudeford RNLI Helm, Ian Parker, overheard the distress call on his VHF radio. He immediately alerted the on-duty Launch Authority, Simon Challis, who requested the crew to assemble at the station.
Solent Coastguard initially tasked Swanage RNLI to assist, but with the charter vessel already making best speed back to Mudeford Quay, the Swanage lifeboat was stood down and returned to station.
As the fishing vessel arrived back at Mudeford Quay, RNLI crew immediately boarded to deliver initial medical care and support to the casualty, who had suffered a suspected heart attack.
A coordinated multi-agency response quickly went into operation. A Solent Coastguard helicopter with a paramedic on board, landed at Mudeford Quay, joined by Coastguard Rescue teams and a South Western Ambulance Service crew.
Working seamlessly alongside partner emergency services, Mudeford RNLI volunteers helped manage the scene, assisted paramedics, and supported casualty care. The casualty was stabilised before being transferred by ambulance to hospital for further treatment.
Mudeford RNLI volunteer Launch Authority, Simon Challis, said ‘This incident highlights exactly why we train so thoroughly for medical emergencies. Our crew responded swiftly and professionally, working closely with HM Coastguard teams, helicopter paramedics, and ambulance staff. We’re relieved the casualty was safely stabilised and transported to hospital and we wish them a full and speedy recovery.
‘I would also like to recognise and thank the crew of the fishing charter who reacted so quickly raising the alarm and getting the casualty to land as quickly as possible.’
The RNLI reminds all boat users of the importance of carrying reliable communication equipment and seeking immediate assistance if a medical emergency occurs at sea.
The Mudeford RNLI Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Henrietta H, has launched 72 times this year so far.
Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI is the charity that 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 146,700 lives.
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