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A diver was airlifted to hospital with suspected decompression sickness after being rescued by Shoreham RNLI during a dive trip near the Rampion Wind Farm on Saturday evening.
The incident, which occurred on 21 June, prompted a swift response from the volunteer crew of Shoreham RNLI, who launched their all-weather lifeboat Enid Collett at 6:10pm following reports of a medical emergency at sea.
Lifesaving Rescue Operation
Upon arrival at the scene, RNLI crew members transferred the diver aboard the lifeboat, where they administered vital first aid while awaiting support from the HM Coastguard Rescue 175 helicopter. The casualty was safely winched from the lifeboat and flown to hospital for specialist treatment.
Lifeboat second coxswain Simon Tugwell praised the coordinated efforts of all emergency responders:
“This was an excellent team effort by all those involved to provide swift medical assistance to the casualty.
The crew were able to put into practice the skills they refreshed on a recent training scenario with the coastguard helicopter, and they really showed their knowledge and ability to help the casualty involved.”
Lifeboat Back in Action Within Minutes
The Enid Collett lifeboat returned to the station by 8:00pm. Following a full clean and refuel, it was declared ready for service again by 8:27pm, demonstrating the team’s operational efficiency.
Reminder of RNLI’s Crucial Role
This incident underscores the vital role of RNLI volunteer crews in partnership with HM Coastguard in saving lives at sea. Decompression sickness, also known as “the bends,” is a serious condition often requiring hyperbaric treatment and rapid evacuation.
As summer dive activity increases along the south coast, the RNLI is reminding water users to remain vigilant and well-prepared.
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