In a swift maritime rescue operation on Saturday, 20 April 2024, the Penlee Inshore Lifeboat ‘Mollie & Ivor Dent’ was deployed following a distress signal from the outer Penzance Harbour.
At 18:59, Falmouth Coastguard was alerted to a person who had unexpectedly fallen from a small vessel into the cold waters, prompting an immediate lifeboat launch.
Rapid Launch and Rescue
The lifeboat, manned by four courageous volunteer crew members, was launched within an impressively quick six minutes from receiving the alert. Making headway in just three minutes, the crew reached the scene and promptly located the stricken individual, who had fallen off his boat. They quickly reported to the Coastguard that the casualty was out of the water, conscious but suffering from the chilling effects of the exposure.
Cliff Team’s Critical Role
Upon the lifeboat crew’s successful extraction of the casualty from the water, the Penzance Coastguard Cliff Rescue team took over. They provided essential care to stabilise the individual, keeping him warm until an ambulance arrived to take him to the nearest hospital for further treatment.
Safe Return
After ensuring the safety of the casualty and handing over responsibilities to the local cliff rescue team, the ‘Mollie & Ivor Dent’ was released from service and returned to its station in Newlyn by 19:50. The operation not only highlighted the efficiency and readiness of the 13 volunteers involved but also underscored the critical role of community response teams in maritime emergencies.
This incident serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers of sea navigation, particularly within harbour confines, and the invaluable service provided by the volunteer lifeboat crews who ensure safety in Cornish waters.
