In a rescue operation, the Selsey RNLI inshore lifeboat (ILB) was launched on Monday, 27th August, after reports emerged that a youth had been impaled on an object after jumping into the water at the entrance to Pagham Harbour.
The UK Coastguard received the distress call and requested the immediate launch of the ILB at 5.41 pm. The lifeboat crew quickly made their way to the scene, navigating at top speed to reach the entrance of the harbour.
The operation was supported by multiple emergency services, including SecAMB, Selsey and Littlehampton Coastguard Rescue Teams, and the Coastguard Rescue helicopter, which was also initially tasked.
Arriving on the scene at 5.50 pm, the ILB crew found that SecAmb paramedics were already attending to the injured youth. The medical team had treated the casualty’s wounds and provided warmth by covering him with blankets.
After assessing the situation, the paramedics determined that the Coastguard Rescue helicopter was not required, and it was subsequently stood down. The injured youth was carefully transferred to the waiting ambulance using the ILB’s ambulance pouch. ILB crewmembers then assisted in moving the casualty some distance to the ambulance, ensuring he was safely onboard.
With the youth securely in the ambulance, the ILB crew returned to their lifeboat. The lifeboat was stood down at 6.21 pm and returned to the station by 6.32 pm, where it was promptly recovered.
