West Kirby RNLI rescue casualty with dislocated shoulder

On Monday (28 April), West Kirby RNLI’s volunteer crew was tasked by HM Coastguard at 1.03pm following reports of a person who had fallen on the rocks at Hilbre Island and potentially suffered a dislocated shoulder.

The volunteer crew launched the D class lifeboat, Leonard Pownall, within 10 minutes and carefully assessed the best route to reach the casualty due to the ebbing tide. Once the crew had located the casualty on the south-east side of Hilbre Island, they provided casualty care at the scene, led by volunteer Crew Member Sam Hanson, before transferring him safely onto the lifeboat. Despite his injury, the man remained calm and stable.

The casualty was then brought back to the north end of the Marine Lake, where the lifeboat was re-launched into the water to allow for a smoother and more comfortable transfer. With support from the Wirral Coastguard Rescue Team, the casualty was helped out of the lifeboat, brought ashore, and taken to Arrowe Park Hospital for treatment.

Following the rescue, the lifeboat was then thoroughly cleaned, refuelled, and made ready for service.

West Kirby Lifeboat Helm, Chris Gatenby, said:

‘Thankfully the individual did exactly the right thing in dialling 999 and asking for the Coastguard as soon as the accident had happened, which allowed our volunteer crew to respond quickly, provide casualty care, and get the casualty to hospital for treatment.

‘It was a real team effort between the Wirral Coastguard Rescue Team and our volunteer lifeboat crew when transferring the casualty out of the lifeboat and safely to shore. Working together meant we could make the process as safe and comfortable as possible for the casualty.

‘Please remember to always carry a means of communication and if you ever find yourself in difficulty, don’t hesitate to call 999 and ask for the Coastguard. We’re always here to help.’

RNLI media contacts

For more information please contact Mim Mellors or Eve Kemp RNLI Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officers on [email protected] and [email protected] or 07702 786966 and 07446 888713.

Alternatively you can contact Claire Fitzpatrick-Smith, RNLI Regional Communications Manager on [email protected] or 07977 728 315, or the RNLI Press Office on [email protected] or 01202 336789.