Big increase in lifeboat rescues

http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/rss/-/1/hi/scotland/5379976.stm

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Scots lifeboat crews had their second busiest summer on record this year, according to fresh figures.

There were 445 RNLI launches in June, July and August - a 10% increase on the summer of 2005.

Scottish RNLI lifeboats launched the equivalent of once every five hours during the summer.

Only the summer of 2002 was busier for the Scottish volunteer lifeboat staff. Broughty Ferry was the busiest Scottish station and the 13th busiest in the UK.

It had 41 launches in total while Troon had 28 launches, Kinghorn had 26 and there were 18 in Oban.

Even those [walking] along the beach can get cut off, which is why we are recommending people plan, prepare and stay aware John CaldwellRNLI Scotland

Some stations saw summer rescues increase by 100% or more compared to 2005.

These included Broughty Ferry, Barra, Girvan, Arbroath, Aith and Kirkwall.

Nationally, this summer was the RNLI's busiest ever, with a total of 3,830 launches in the UK and Ireland.

The charity said the increase was partly due to more people using the sea and RNLI chiefs urged them to plan trips and be vigilant.

They advised anyone going out to check the tide timetables and weather.

Boat users should always wear lifejackets, use the right equipment and carry some means of calling for help, preferably a VHF radio, they added.

Call for help

John Caldwell, RNLI divisional inspector for Scotland, said: "The RNLI wants to encourage people to enjoy themselves on or by the sea without putting themselves at risk.

"Even those just going for a walk along the beach can get cut off, which is why we are recommending people plan, prepare and stay aware.

"Know what the tides and weather are doing, use the right safety equipment with a means of calling for help and let someone know your plans.

"However, we know that sometimes no matter what you do you may find yourself needing help, and the most important thing is to call for help straight away."

The charity is also calling for donations to help train and equip its volunteer lifeboat crews.

The RNLI has an active fleet of 52 lifeboats at 44 lifeboat stations around Scotland.