Port Talbot RNLI responds to two shouts in 80 minutes
Port Talbot RNLI’s inshore lifeboat 'Craig Morris' was requested to launch by HM Coastguard at 5.40pm on Sunday 13 July, to assist in the search for two missing children on a warm busy evening at Aberavon Beach.
In sweltering conditions our volunteer crew assembled and donned their kit to commence a shore line search for the missing children, the crew were led by Helm Carl Matthews. A clear description of the children was provided which greatly helped in the search. During the search a call was received communicating that the children had been located and were safe and well.
Launch Authority Steve Summerfield said:
‘The crew assembled very quickly to commence the search for the missing children. What was important was a clear description of the children and the clothes that they were wearing.
'We would advise it is always a good idea to take a photo of the children in your party when you arrive at the beach and also to grab a lost child wristband which you can pick up from our shop or the Beach Lifeguard Unit. Letting your children know that they should seek out a lifeguard if they get separated from you is also very important.’
Following the call the crew returned to station and washed and prepared the lifeboat ready for service, but it wasn't long until a further call was received at 7.11pm from the Coastguard, requesting the Port Talbot crew's assistance.
A report had been received from a concerned citizen about a group of children on an inflatable on the River Afan, however on arrival the area was clear. We appreciate the call that the first responder made, it's important for our community to be vigilant and report anything they are concerned about. If you do see someone in trouble in the water Call-Tell-Throw.
- Call 999 or 112
- Tell them to Float to Live
- Throw them something that floats.
The RNLI is a registered charity that saves lives at sea. It provides, on call, a 24-hour lifeboat search and rescue service to 100 miles out from the coast of the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland and a beach lifeguard service on over 200 beaches in England and Wales. If you would like more information on fundraising ideas to help raise much needed funds for the RNLI please visit our website for more details or pop into your local station to discuss any fundraising ideas that you may have.
RNLI media contacts
For more information please contact Port Talbot RNLI Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer, Kirstee David on [email protected] or Claire Fitzpatrick-Smith, Regional Communications Manager on [email protected] or 07977 728 315.
Alternatively, you can contact the RNLI Press Office on [email protected] or 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.
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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.