Press Notice No: 66-12
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Posted 15:59 GMT

Two anglers were rescued this afternoon from thick fog after their vessel broke down.

The Elvie called Whitby Harbour office at just after 10.30 this morning to say that the vessel had broken down with two people on board. They gave their position as 8km east of Whitby.
The harbour office called Humber Coastguard. Whitby RNLI Lifeboat was asked to go to the vessels assistance and the Whitby Coastguard Rescue Team went to harbour to glean as much information about the vessel as they could.
Humber Coastguard attempted to contact the Elvie to confirm their location but couldnt contact them. It later transpired that this was because the vessels battery was flat and so their VHF radio wouldnt work.
Luckily they hadnt drifted in the fog and the Whitby RNLI Lifeboat quickly found the Elvie. The lifeboat then brought the vessel back to Whitby Harbour where they were met by the Whitby Coastguard Rescue Team.
Graham Dawson, Humber Coastguard Watch Manager said:
If you are thinking about heading out in a small boat in thick fog please remember its not just about what you can see but whether other vessels can see you. Without radar reflectors small boats may be invisible to large ships.
Simple checks, like battery charge can make a difference between an enjoyable days fishing and a frustrating day waiting to be rescued. Before you set out prepare well so that you can have a safe and enjoyable time. If you do get into difficulty your first call should be to the Coastguard. Use your VHF radio on channel 16 or call 999 on your mobile and ask for the Coastguard.


Posted By: Joanne Groenenberg

For further details contact:
The Maritime & Coastguard Agency Press Office
023 8032 9401