“Hoax calls can take valuable resources away from casualties at sea who are in genuine need of RNLI’s help” – that is from the operations manager of Bembridge RNLI, which was recently subject to a hoax call by repeated pranksters.
Last Saturday (24th August), Solent Coastguard requested the launching of Bembridge’s Inshore Lifeboat to assist in the medical evacuation of a sailor with a suspected broken ankle.
It was reported that the yacht was unable to enter Bembridge Harbour due to low tide, and therefore needed assistance in getting the casualty to shore for further medical treatment. A second yacht confirmed with the Coastguard that they had visual contact with the vessel.
Responding to the emergency call, Bembridge RNLI volunteers launched the D-Class lifeboat and made their way to the Bembridge Harbour entrance. However, after conducting a thorough search, nothing could be found.
It soon was realised that the circumstances of the ’emergency’ were very similar to an incident reported just days before, in which a yacht claimed that they were entering Portsmouth Harbour – with a second yacht claiming visual contact.
Based on these similarities, Solent Coastguard retrieved the recorded radio call from Tuesday evening. Upon reviewing both calls, they determined that the voices were the same and, despite the use of different call signs, the incident was indeed a hoax.
John Keyworth, RNLI Operations Manager at Bembridge, has said:
“Unfortunately, hoax calls put added pressure on our teams, who, unable to find a casualty, will spend fruitless time and energy trying to achieve a satisfactory outcome when one can never be made.
“We all struggle to understand what the pleasure for the individuals can be who make such calls; one has to question their mentality.
“Although annoyed, my team and all those involved will always respond to what we believe is a genuine call for help, and I thank each and every one of them despite the utter waste of time and resources involved.
“Hoax calls can take valuable resources away from casualties at sea who are in genuine need of RNLI’s help and from real emergencies”.
It was the 10th call out for Bembridge Lifeboat volunteers in just a 7-day period.
If you or someone else is in difficulty on the coast or at sea, or if you spot what you think may be unexploded ordnance, then dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard. Further safety information can be found at https://coastguardsafety.campaign.gov.uk/.
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