RNLI launch to unresponsive kayaker half a mile out to sea

RNLI volunteer crews launched their D-class inshore lifeboat at 12:25pm from Happisburgh Lifeboat Station and proceeded towards the kayaker off the Norfolk coast.

The lifeboat crew soon spotted the kayak drifting over half a mile from the coast. The kayaker, appeared unresponsive on the kayak. Bringing the casualty carefully onboard the lifeboat, the crew immediately began their assessment and administering casualty care.

The crew called for an ambulance and made their way promptly back to shore where they were met by a shore-based coastguard team who assisted with treatment until the ambulance arrived.

Happisburgh RNLI Helm Chris Risby said: ‘I was very pleased that the casualty had done all the right things by wearing a personal floatation device and having means of calling for help.

‘They had also notified someone ashore of where they were, so that they could call for help. We would encourage all members of the public to follow these steps before entering the water, and if you do see someone who needs help, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.’

Maria, who was rescued, has since returned to see the crew who saved her.

She said: ‘They were absolutely wonderful, I couldn’t have wished for anything better. I was well-prepared, had my lifejacket on but the wind turned, and everything culminated to a perfect storm. I would encourage everyone that no matter how calm it is, try thinking of the worst case scenario’.

Chris said: 'If you are heading to the coast during the warm warm weather, choose a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags.'

For more information on how to stay safe at the coast go to https://rnli.org/safety

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.

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