RNLI lifeboat crew pass outs and rescue all in one day
At Port Talbot Lifeboat Station, three crew members successfully completed their Tier 2 Lifeboat Pass Out assessments alongside a quick rescue in between.
The assessments were carried out throughout a very busy and hot day on Aberavon Beach, with strong offshore winds, under the supervision of RNLI Coastal Lifeboat Trainer Hugh ‘Spud’ Davies.
The day started well for Lee Purcell, who was assessed on all aspects of lifeboat operations, including veering down navigation, man overboard recovery, helming, firefighting and a range of other operational scenarios. After completing his assessment, Lee was congratulated by Hugh Davies on successfully passing.
Following a short lunch break, Thomas Charles began his assessment and was also put through a wide range of operational scenarios to test both his seamanship and lifeboat knowledge.
However, while returning to the River Afan for a crew change, HM Coastguard requested the immediate assistance of Port Talbot Lifeboat following reports of four people being blown out to sea on a single paddleboard.
Making best speed to the scene, the lifeboat arrived within eight minutes and
began searching the area. The casualties were quickly located and, although they had managed to self-rescue into shallow surf, they had been at risk due to the strong offshore winds.
Once Helm Carl Matthews was satisfied there was no further danger to life, the lifeboat was stood down and returned to the River Afan for a crew change. It was only then that Tom was informed he had successfully passed his assessment.
Last up was Jason Clifford-Hillman who, after being thoroughly tested on his seamanship and operational knowledge, was also congratulated by Hugh Davies on passing his Tier 2 assessment.
Lifeboat Operations Manager Clive Morris said:
‘All three crew members have dedicated many hours to training, both at sea and in the classroom, to achieve this qualification. I would like to congratulate them all, as this is not an easy assessment to pass.
‘Having three additional Tier 2 crew members is a great asset for our station, while also showing newer crew that hard work and commitment really do pay off.
‘I would also like to thank our station’s Trainers Paul Skinner and Carl Matthews for all their hard work in getting our crews ready for assessments.’
Clive also issued an important water safety reminder:
‘We advise against the use of inflatables or paddleboards when the wind is blowing offshore and out to sea. Always visit a lifeguarded beach and make sure you are wearing the correct safety equipment such as a buoyancy aid for your chosen activity. Make sure to carry a reliable means of calling for help, like a fully charged mobile phone.’
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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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