RNLI lifeboats in Burnham-On-Sea were launched nine times during the past year, according to official statistics released by the charity this week.
While the number of launches during 2014 was the lowest for several years, the Burnham lifeboats proved invaluable by helping eight people in difficulty.
The statistics also showed that the RNL’s new llifeguards at Burnham-On-Sea and Berrow dealt assisted scores of people whilst also providing essential beach safety information.
Figures announced by the RNLI this week revealed that 2014 was another busy year for the crews across the south west. Lifeboats were launched 1,560 times and rescued 1,659 people – the highest since 2011.
With approximately seven million people using the region’s beaches throughout the summer, the charity’s lifeguards dealt with 12,064 incidents, aiding 13,586 people and saving 52 lives. Volunteer lifeboat crews across the region’s 35 lifeboat stations saved a total of 58 lives and spent 9,743 hours on service at sea, equating to 406 days.
Tom Mansell, Divisional Operations Manager, said: “The statistics revealed today show another busy year for our volunteer lifeboat crews and illustrate their true dedication to saving lives at sea. Not only did they spend the equivalent of 406 days at sea responding to the call of their pager, they collectively gave up 22,000 hours of their time to train on exercise to ensure they are ready to launch to any situation. This is a remarkable display of commitment, to which we thank them wholeheartedly and also their families and employers who allow them to carry out their selfless work, whatever time of day and in all weathers.”
