Five rescued following large search in the Solent

A large search focused in the central Solent, was sparked earlier today (2nd August) after the UK Coastguard received a 999 call from a small leisure craft boat.

The vessel which had five people on board, had suffered engine failure and because of the weather conditions, began taking in water.

No-one onboard was able to provide a clear position, which was partly a result of having no positioning equipment or navigational aids.

Independent lifeboats from Gosport, Hamble and Ryde, along with the Portsmouth RNLI lifeboat conducted a search through the central Solent. The Coastguard Rescue Helicopter based at Lee on Solent began an initial search and was spotted by the vessel which meant its location could then be determined.

It was then found by both the lifeboats and the helicopter and all onboard were transferred to Hamble lifeboat where the paramedic from the Coastguard helicopter carried out initial medical assessments.

They were then taken to Lee on Solent where they were met by Hill Head Coastguard Rescue Team and an ambulance. 

Steve Mann, Senior Maritime Operations Officer said, ‘If you’re going out to sea, make sure you’re properly prepared and that you have some way of being located if you get into difficulty.

‘VHF DSC sets are readily available. When you use them, we can then pinpoint your location and get to you more quickly.’



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