Port Talbot RNLI lifeboat volunteers called for the second rescue of the year
Port Talbot RNLI volunteers were task by HM Coastguard at 9.30am on Tuesday (16 January), to reports of a 23ft vessel with a rope around its prop in the River Afan.
Despite it being a working day for the majority of the volunteer crew, the response to the pager sounding was immediate.
Launching the D class lifeboat Craig Morris into an icy-cold, but bright January morning, the volunteer crew made best safe speed to the reported location of the vessel.
On arrival the helm completed a dynamic risk assessment, concluding the safest option was to set up a tow to bring the disabled vessel safely to the slipway. Where an effort could be safely made to clear the prop and check for any damage.
Once the casualty vessel was safely delivered to the slipway on the River Afan and wellbeing checks on the casualties were completed, the crew returned to their launch site to be met by the shore crew to assist with recovery, refuelling, washing and making the lifeboat ready for service.
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.