RNLI Tighnabruaich assist with rescue on Loch Fyne.
HM Coastguard deployed their helicopter and Inverary Rescue Team to reports of a casualty in the water having fallen overboard from a dinghy.
Launching just after 9pm on Friday 26 May, RNLI Tighnabruaich volunteers were deployed to provide further support travelling the considerable distance to Inveraray Bay on Loch Fyne. On arrival the casualty had been assisted back on board their vessel by the Coastguard, but there remained concerns for their health and how much water may have been taken in. They had not been wearing a personal flotation device.
Unfortunately, the casualty was unwilling to be taken ashore for waiting ambulance crew to carry out health checks but, with the agreement of all parties, the lifeboat crew transported a paramedic to the casualty so they were able to complete the appropriate health checks to their satisfaction. Returning the paramedic back to their crew on shore, the lifeboat was then able to start the long journey back to Tighnabruaich Station.
Given the distance travelled and manoeuvres involved, RNLI Helm Heather Whyte had to manage the return journey carefully mindful of the inshore lifeboat’s limited fuel reserves, tempting though it was to try and return as soon as possible. Heather said “it was great to work alongside Inveraray Coastguard as we don’t normally get the opportunity”. The crew finally returned to the station at 2am, all were stood down, and the lifeboat made ready for next service
To stay safe in the water, an appropriate lifejacket or buoyancy aid should always be worn. If you see someone in trouble in the water, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.
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.
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