Sheerness RNLI launches three times in two days during Kent heatwave

The station's D-Class lifeboat, Buster, was first tasked at 6.10pm on Monday, June 22, following reports of a person in the water near Tesco in Sheerness. Shortly after launching, it was confirmed the person was not in difficulty, and the crew were stood down before returning to the station.

Less than an hour later, the crew were paged again following reports of a man in need of assistance near Chatham Docks.

Working alongside Medway and Sheppey Coastguard Rescue Teams, the volunteer crew carried out a shoreline search between Gillingham and Chatham before locating a casualty on St Mary's Island and directing Coastguard teams to their location.

The casualty was taken into the care of Kent Police while the lifeboat remained on scene. The crew were then informed it may have been the wrong person and carried out a further shoreline search on their return towards Gillingham before being stood down.

The station was launched for a third time at 6.45pm on Wednesday, June 24, after reports of people swimming near Tesco in Sheerness. On arrival, it was confirmed those in the water were safe and not in need of assistance.

With hot weather encouraging more people to visit beaches, rivers and coastal areas, Sheerness RNLI is reminding everyone to enjoy the water safely.

Lifeboat Operations Manager Alan Carr said: "As the weather gets warmer, we naturally see more people heading to the coast to cool off, which can lead to an increase in calls to the lifeboat.

"Even on the hottest days, the water can still be dangerously cold. Entering cold water unexpectedly can cause cold water shock, which affects your breathing and ability to swim, even if you are an experienced swimmer.

"If you think someone is in trouble in the water, always call 999 and ask for the Coastguard. We'd much rather launch and find everything is OK than risk someone not getting help when they genuinely need it. You will never be criticised for raising the alarm if you are concerned about someone's safety.

"We'd also encourage anyone visiting the coast this summer to choose a lifeguarded beach where possible, swim between the red and yellow flags, keep an eye on family and friends, and remember our Float to Live advice if you find yourself in difficulty."

The RNLI's Float to Live advice is to fight your instinct to swim, lean back, extend your arms and legs, and float until you can control your breathing. Once the effects of cold water shock have passed, call for help or swim to safety if you are able.