EPIRB ALERT ACTIVATED RESCUE IN NORTH SEA

The seven crew of the Norwegian Vicking long boat ‘Dragens Vinge’ has been rescued this afternoon 50 miles east of Shetland, after their EPRIB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon) was activated.

Coastguard Officers at Falmouth Coastguard were able to alert Shetland Coastguard after the EPRIB from the Norwegian vessel was activated.  The Coastguard Rescue Helicopter from Sumburgh was scrambled and the Lerwick RNLI all weather lifeboat was requested to launch. Coastguard Rescue Officers from Lerwick were requested to attend.

Mike Smith, Watch Officer, Shetland Coastguard, said:

“The only information we were in receipt of was that and EPIRB alert had been transmitted, we tasked resources to the scene and the crew of the Rescue Helicopter located a raft with seven crew aboard, they have all now been transferred to the Rescue Helicopter and are being taken to Gilbert Bain Hospital in Lerwick. 

The weather conditions on scene were force 7 to gale force 8.

We would like to remind the public how important it is to be prepared before you set out to sea, and if travelling offshore to always carry Digital Selective Calling (DSC), Electronic Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB), flares and lifejackets.  Always ensure your details are kept up to date with the EPIRB Registry at Falmouth.”

Notes to Editors

1. Stay safe - before heading out on the water get trained, check weather and tides, wear a lifejacket, avoid alcohol and keep in touch

2. Follow us on Twitter. Find us at MCA_media

For further details contact:
The Maritime & Coastguard Agency Duty Press Officer
Office hours: 023 8032 9401Mobile: 07764 624 505
Press releases and further information about the Agency is available on the Web at www.mcga.gov.uk

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