THE RNLI has reminded boat users about the importance of safety at sea after lifeboat crews reported an “exceptionally busy” weekend.
In addition to providing safety cover for Saturday’s annual Sark to Jersey rowing race, the two RNLI lifeboats attended four call-outs in just over 24 hours.
Three people were rescued from a beach between Grève de Lecq and Devil’s Hole – believed to be “Little Grève” – on Saturday afternoon after becoming stranded in a small dinghy.
The St Catherine-based RNLI crew towed the dinghy away from the coast and transferred the trio to the inshore lifeboat before they were taken to Grève de Lecq.
Earlier in the day the St Catherine lifeboat had retrieved an unoccupied vessel north of the Écréhous – the boat had broken free from its mooring and was secured.
While on duty for the rowing race in the afternoon, the St Helier all-weather lifeboat was called to a sailing boat around six miles south-west of Corbière after the occupants reported difficulties as a result of a tarpaulin becoming caught in the rudder and propeller. The boat was towed back to St Helier.
The final call-out came on Sunday morning as the St Catherine lifeboat responded to reports of a mayday call, although they were later stood down by Jersey Coastguard due to a false alarm.
A spokesperson for the RNLI said: “As the summer season brings more people to the water, we’d wish to remind everyone of the importance of boating safety.
“Always ensure your vessel is properly secured to its mooring, carry the necessary safety equipment, and have a means of communication in case of emergencies.
“Remember, in the event of a problem, it’s better to call for assistance early rather than waiting until the situation worsens.”
