Cowes RNLI Rescues Injured Sailor Alongside Police And Coastguard Helicopter

(c) Paul Cobbett

Cowes RNLI’s lifeboat launched alongside a police RIB and Coastguard helicopter at 2PM today, Tuesday 17 June, to attend an injured sailor between Osborne Bay and Wooton.

The lone sailor had been injured by his 32ft sailing yacht’s boom, and called Solent Coastguard for help.

On a sunny day with light winds, the crew on Cowes RNLI’s inshore lifeboat Sheena Louise reached the man in 5 minutes.

They were soon joined by a police RIB and Coastguard helicopter.

First aid was administered to the casualty aboard his vessel while a paramedic was winched from the helicopter into the RNLI lifeboat.

Upon assessment, the casualty appeared to be alert and out of immediate danger, so the decision was made to transfer him to Hamble where he was met by Hill Head Coastguard Response Team to await an ambulance.

The Cowes RNLI crew returned to station at 4PM.

Libby Finch, Cowes RNLI helm, said:

“We were happy to be able to help today, and to reach the casualty so quickly.

"He did the right thing in calling for help as soon as he was injured.

"When going sailing, always carry a means of calling for help. If in trouble, dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”