Bembridge RNLI rescues two people and their dog from a capsized dinghy
At 11:16pm yesterday evening Bembridge RNLI inshore lifeboat (ILB) and all-weather lifeboat (ALB) were tasked to Priory Bay, Seaview as it was reported that two adults and their dog had been spotted in the water as their dinghy had capsized.
Fast actions by crew meant that by 11:36pm the ILB crew located the casualties while the ALB recovered the casualties by 11:38pm. Once recovered and onboard they were taken to Duver Marina (approximately 1.5nm away from Priory Bay) and passed into the care of the Coastguard Rescue Team who were waiting alongside the Isle of Wight Ambulance Service. The ILB then recovered the small dinghy to the same location.
The crew acted swiftly and Amy Attrill, ILB & ALB crew said 'It was all hands on deck. Every member of the crew played an essential role and because we were able to respond so quickly it was a successful shout. We were able to bring the two casualties and their dog back to safety before the situation escalated.'
Dawn Hodge, an ILB helm commented 'When we arrived on scene the two casualties were in the water completely submerged up to their shoulders with their dog on the upturned hull. We were able to pull the casualties quickly from the water and were closely supported by the crew on the ALB to take the casualties swiftly to shore. Despite the warm conditions the casualties had been in the water for some considerable time and were showing signs of hypothermia. They were very lucky as the outcome could have been very different and shows the need to be properly prepared and equipped when going to sea. We were so pleased to be able to bring them, and their dog, back to safety.'
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Julie Rainey, RNLI Regional Communications Lead for London and South East England, 07827 358256, [email protected]
RNLI Press Office, 01202 336789, [email protected]
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