IT HAS been a busy week for Penarth’s RNLI crew, with three callouts to help broken-down boats.

The team of volunteers have come to the rescue of three broken down boats since last Friday  – aiding people in need during this particularly cold time of year.

According to Water Safety Officer at RNLI Penarth Lifeboat Station, Neil Cunningham, machinery and equipment failure in boats at sea make up around 30 per cent of the callouts in Penarth.

He advised people take out precautions when heading out on boats – including:

  • Ensuring engines are well-maintained;
  • Checking batteries and fuel levels;
  • Ensuring you bring a way to call for help if needed.

The rescues:

On Thursday, January 20, they were paged at 9.34pm – potentially their coldest voyage this week due as it was late in the evening – due to a broken-down leisure boat. Using an Atlantic 85 lifeboat they confirmed the boat was unable to make its own way due to mechanical problems and crew towed the boat safely into Cardiff Bay.

On Monday, January 17, the crew were paged at 6.10pm to help a broken-down boat north of the Ranie, towing it safely to Cardiff Bay.

And on the afternoon of Sunday, January 17, crew rescued a boat which had brown down near the entrance of the Rhymney River – successfully bringing the fishing boat back to its mooring.

What Mr Cunningham said:

"Machinery and equipment failure in vessels at sea make up about 30% of our callouts at Penarth.

"Fortunately, as happened with our two callouts this week, many can be resolved quickly and safely. But the situation can quickly become more serious due to adverse weather and tides.  

“At this time of year, it’s important to make sure that engines are well-maintained before setting out on the water, batteries are checked and that there is enough fuel to get you back home.

“We also advise boat owners to always carry a means of calling for help, and don’t hesitate to contact the Coastguard if they find themselves in difficulty.”