Harwich lifeboat and Coastguard helicopter aid capsized kayaker
Harwich lifeboat and Coastguard helicopter aid capsized kayaker
Lifeboats News Release
On the 24 March 2024 the dedicated volunteer crew of Harwich lifeboat sprang into action whilst on a training exercise with the Coastguard helicopter, when called to a capsized kayaker on the River Deben, near Waldringfield.
RNLI/Harwich
Harwich ILB and Coastguard Helicopter
The incident unfolded when a kayaker capsized on the River Deben, prompting an urgent call for assistance. With the helicopter engaged in exercise alongside the inshore lifeboat (ILB), the crew quickly diverted their attention to the rescue mission, demonstrating flexibility and readiness in responding to emergencies.
Upon arrival at the scene, the Harwich lifeboat crew provided essential support to the operation, working alongside the helicopter to ensure the safe recovery of all the people involved. The collaborative effort between air and sea units proved instrumental in swiftly resolving the situation.
Despite the interruption to their scheduled exercise, the Harwich lifeboat crew remained undeterred, prioritising the safety and wellbeing of those in distress. With the assistance of the Harbour Master, everyone was safely recovered, and the ILB stood by to ensure that everyone involved was accounted for and in good health.
The Harwich lifeboat crew extends its gratitude to all involved in the successful resolution of this incident, including the Harbour Master and the helicopter crew. Their swift and effective response exemplifies the collaborative spirit of maritime safety operations.
Notes to Editor
The RNLI is the Royal National Lifeboat Institution.
Harwich RNLI is based on The Quay, Harwich. The lifeboat station was founded in 1829 and the volunteer crew use an all-weather Severn class lifeboat (ALB)
The Albert Brown and B class lifeboat (ILB) Tierney, Harvey and Sonny Reid.
RNLI Media Contacts
For further information, please contact Adam Prescott, volunteer RNLI Lifeboat Press Officer 07946 519314 [email protected]
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.
