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Second launch by Weymouth RNLI to assist kite surfers in two days

Lifeboats News Release

Volunteer crew at Weymouth RNLI launched their Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat twice in two days to assist kite surfers in very windy conditions.

The first launch took place on 28 December at around 11.15am, when a person was reported in difficulty at Portland harbour. The inshore lifeboat was launched and located the person at 11.30am. They'd been unable to relaunch their kite but had managed to reach a nearby marker buoy.

Once on scene the casualty and their equipment was recovered to the inshore lifeboat, where they were assessed to be fit and well, although a little cold. The crew then returned them and their equipment to shore near Billy Winters/Ferry Bridge.

The crew returned to station where the vessel was cleaned down and made ready for service.

The following day on 29 December, a launch request was received at approximately 12.30pm from the Coastguard to reports of a kite surfer in difficulties in Portland Harbour.

The volunteer crew assembled and launched the inshore lifeboat and proceeded to Portland harbour, where the kite surfer was recovered off Sandsfoot beach. They were then returned to Ferrybridge with all their equipment.

If you're kitesurfing we recommend some simple advice to ensure you enjoy your activity safely:
  • Always kite with another person.
  • If you go alone, take a means of calling or signalling for help.
  • Never ride out further than you can swim back.
  • Equipment failure does happen. Be prepared.
  • Check the conditions and tides. Don't go out in conditions you can't handle.
  • Check what sizes of kites other riders are using. If you do not have the correct size, do not go out.
  • Do not ask or allow someone who is not familiar with kites to help you launch or land - give them some training on how to do it.
  • Always tell someone you are going out and when you will be back.

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 142,700 lives.

Learn more about the RNLI

For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. News releases, videos and photos are available on the News Centre.

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.

About the author

Nick Critchell
Lifeboat Press Officer, Weymouth

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