Preliminary figures for June, July and August reveal that RNLI lifeboats launched a total of 3,830 times, making 2006 the most demanding summer season on record for volunteer lifeboat crews. The figures illustrate a continuing upward trend in lifeboat rescues and demand on RNLI resources. They represent a 4% increase on 2005, the RNLI's previous busiest summer.
The busiest RNLI lifeboat station this summer was Tower (River Thames), with a total of 109 launches. The busiest RNLI stations on the coast were Rhyl, Denbighshire (78 launches), Poole, Dorset (74) and Southend-on-Sea, Essex (73).
The RNLI says that 70% of these launches were performed by their fast and rapid response inshore lifeboats, reflecting the fact that more people than ever are using the sea for leisure pursuits, not just sailing but also kite surfing, jet skiing, kayaking, angling, surfing, diving and more besides.
RNLI sea safety manager, Peter Chennell says: “Our volunteer crews are still being called out to the typical types of summer holiday rescues of children swept out to sea on inflatables or people cut off by the tide. Indeed our busiest coastal stations are located in the traditional busy seaside resorts. However, our crews also appear to be helping people who, more and more, are using the sea as a recreational environment.
“Together, a greater range of water-based activities and hobbies, access to relatively cheap or pre-owned equipment, and what seems to be year-round improved weather patterns mean that more people are now using the sea for leisure. While the majority enjoy their watersports without getting into trouble, some do end up needing the help of the RNLI's lifeboat volunteers.
“We would encourage novices and experienced watersport enthusiasts alike to contact the RNLI's sea safety team for the most up-to-date advice and guidance on staying safe.”
The RNLI has produced a free interactive Complete Guide To Sea Safety for all sea users. A booklet provides top-level sea-safety information for all water users, an accompanying CD-ROM gives safety information about individual sports and the RNLI website publishes the latest safety updates.
For more information or to make a donation to the lifesaving charity visit www.rnli.org.uk
