Two Crew Airlifted by Rescue Helicopter following Explosion onboard Dredger in Cornwall
A Major rescue operation has been over seen by the UK Coastguard following an explosion South of Dodman Point, Cornwall. Just before 1pm today, UK Coastguard received a call from a dredging vessel reporting that they’d had an explosion on board. It is believed that a compressed air cylinder exploded and two of the three people on board have been injured in the blast. The Newquay Coastguard helicopter and the Falmouth RNLI Lifeboat are currently on scene evacuating the casualties to Derriford Hospital. A Royal Navy Fleet Auxiliary ship and a Fishery Protection vessel are also on scene assisting. UPDATE – Newquay Coastguard helicopter crew have praised the assistance of the crews from a Fisheries Protection vessel and the Falmouth RNLI who assisted them with two injured casualties after an explosion on a vessel earlier this afternoon. The helicopter crew, Captain Darren Manswer, Co-Pilot Ivan Hamilton, Winch Operator Andy Batchelor and Winchman Paramedic Carlton Real, said that their assistance was really appreciated and a great example of inter-agency working. Both casualties were airlifted to Derriford Hospital and one casualty was reported to be in a serious condition, although not thought to be life-threatening. UK Coastguard wish both men a speedy recovery. Fowey All Weather Lifeboat established a tow with the vessel, which is still sea worthy and is not a fire risk, and is currently towing it into Harbour. Falmouth Lifeboat will assist with the tow after taking the third uninjured man to shore. The Marine Accident Investigation Branch have been informed of this incident.
