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Wick RNLI lifeboat called for assistance

Lifeboats News Release

RNLB Windsor Runner (Civil Service No42) a relief Trent class lifeboat at Wick RNLI Lifeboat Station was tasked by HM Coastguard on Monday (11 August) afternoon to investigate a vessel that had suffered from a mechanical breakdown in Sinclair Bay.

Wick RNLI

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The RNLI lifeboat at Wick RNLI launched at 2.30pm and made its way to Sinclair Bay where the volunteer crew found another vessel had already rendered some assistance by securing a line to the casualty vessel - a small pleasure craft with two people on board.

Upon reaching the scene, the Coxswain assessed the situation and made the decision that undertaking a tow was necessary and the safest way to assist the casualties. The towed vessel was returned to the nearest safe and suitable port, which was Keiss harbour.

The RNLI lifeboat returned to Wick harbour at 4pm and was made ready for next service.

The RNLI (Royal National Lifeboat Institution) emphasizes the importance of wearing a lifejacket and having a means of communication, like a VHF radio, when going afloat.

Key Safety Messages:
  • Wear a lifejacket or buoyancy aid:
    A lifejacket is crucial for staying afloat, especially in an emergency, and can turn an unconscious person face up in the water.
  • Stay in touch:
    Carry a VHF radio or a charged mobile phone in a waterproof pouch to call for help if needed.
  • Know how to use your equipment:
    Practice using your radio and understand how to send a distress message.
  • Be aware of your surroundings:
    Monitor weather conditions, stay aware of your location, and have a suitable anchor.
  • Be prepared for emergencies:
    Have a plan and know the correct procedures for man overboard situations and other emergencies.
Using a VHF Radio in an Emergency:
  • Distress call: If you need immediate help, use your VHF radio to send a Mayday call (if in serious and imminent danger), or a Pan-Pan call (for less urgent situations).
  • Identify yourself: Clearly state your vessel's name or call sign.
  • Provide your position: Give your location using the most accurate means available.
  • Monitor Channel 16: This is the international distress frequency and should be monitored at all times.
  • Practice: Regularly practice your distress call procedures.
Other important safety advice:
  • Check your equipment: Ensure your lifejacket is in good working order and serviced regularly.

Notes to editors

ยท Wick lifeboat station has been operating since 1848. To learn more about the lifeboat station go to: Wick Lifeboat Station - RNLI

RNLI media contacts

John Taylor, Lifeboat Press Officer, [email protected]

Natasha Rushby, RNLI Regional Communications Manager for Scotland, 07826 900639, [email protected]

Martin Macnamara, RNLI Regional Communications Lead for Scotland, 07920 365929, [email protected]

RNLI Press Office, 01202 336789

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,700 lives.

Learn more about the RNLI

For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, X, TikTok and YouTube. News releases, videos and photos are available on the News Centre.

Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries

Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.

About the author

John Taylor
Lifeboat Press Officer, Wick Lifeboat Station

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