RNLI Lifeboat Scrambles Over False Distress Alert Off Bembridge
Bembridge RNLI’s inshore lifeboat, the Norman Harvey, was launched this afternoon after a distress signal was picked up from a yacht near Bembridge.
Distress Call Sparks Quick Response
At around 2:35pm, Solent Coastguard requested the launch of the D Class lifeboat to investigate a DSC Distress alert. The yacht was believed to be two miles northeast of the Bembridge station, but no follow-up voice message came through.
False Alarm Ends Swiftly
The crew checked a nearby yacht, which confirmed they were safe and well. The lifeboat was then stood down after the Chichester Harbour Master identified the source of the distress call as a false alert. Norman Harvey returned to Lane End and was back on shore by 3:00pm.
The quick response highlights the RNLI’s readiness to act, even when the alert turns out to be a false alarm.
