LIFEJACKETS KEEP TWO AFLOAT AFTER DINGHY SINKS

At just before four o’clock this afternoon Portland Coastguard received a 999 call reporting that a Marlin dinghy had capsized off Hengistbury Head with two people on board.

Mudeford RNLI Inshore Lifeboat and the Coastguard Rescue Helicopter from Solent were sent to search the scene whilst Southborne Coastguard Rescue Team went to meet up with the person who had made the 999 call.

A six metre RHIB ‘Merlin’ responded to the call from Portland Coastguard for vessels in the area to keep a look out. They found two people in the water, where they had been for 20 minutes after the dinghy sank. They were uninjured and taken back to shore by Mudeford Lifeboat.

Ros Evans Portland Coastguard Watch Manager said:
“The dinghy sailors’ shore contact did exactly the right thing by dialling 999 coastguard when the dinghy capsized. We recommend that dinghy sailors should carry hand held vhf, flares or a charged mobile phone to call for help but the most important thing is that they should wear a lifejacket or buoyancy aid and these two dinghy sailors were doing just that.

“Unexpected situations like this are exactly why the MCA recommends that recreational sailors and motor boaters wear lifejackets at all times whilst on deck. These should be well maintained and have a sprayhood, light and whistle if possible. People must ensure that their lifejacket has a crotch strap and that they use it.”

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

  1. Follow us on Twitter. Find us at MCA_media

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