ANGLER FOUND IN WATER BECAUSE OF REFLECTIVE STRIP ON LIFEJACKET

An angler was pulled from the water after a helicopter spotted the reflective strip on his lifejacket.

Just before 11pm last night, a member of the public on Gypsy Lane Lepe Beach who had heard calls for help from the water, made a 999 call to Solent Coastguard.  They immediately sent the Southampton Coastguard Rescue Team and both RNLI lifeboats based at Calshot to the scene. The Police helicopter was in the Christchurch area and so that was asked to search the area from the air. They spotted reflective strips on a lifejacket in the water, directing the Calshot Inshore Lifeboat in to pull the angler from the water.

It’s believed that the angler had anchored a small boat about a quarter of a mile offshore, at the mouth of the Beaulieu River. This boat was found capsized.

Tony Wheeler Solent Coastguard Watch Manager said:

“This angler was found because of his lifejacket. It was the reflective strips that the helicopter quickly spotted with their search light and enabled them to guide the lifeboat straight to him.

“Although the angler was taken to hospital in a serious condition he was found alive because of his lifejacket. The MCA recommends that recreational water users should wear lifejackets at all times whilst on deck. These should be well maintained and should have a sprayhood, light and whistle if possible. People must ensure that their lifejacket has a crotch strap and that they use it.”

-Ends-

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

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