Be safe at sea
In 2023, the RnLI undertook a huge survey to collect and analyse information on sea anglers’ participation in the sport and their attitudes towards safety and risk in order to shape awareness campaigns specifically towards anglers.
Every year, anglers lose their lives along the coast and aboard vessels.
While the RNLI are there to rescue many, prevention and education is the key to keeping people safe at sea.
If the worst happens you may need to be your own or your friends’ lifesaver.
These surveys and practical tests form the backbone of the RNLI safety message. Photographer, writer and “fishing junkie” Henry Gilbey visited the RNLI College in Poole, Dorset, to find out how useful a lifejacket really is for anglers.
You can read a full report on Henry’s blog but they tested a huge variety of angling apparel in controlled conditions.
They tested different types of waders, suits, jacket, calm water, rougher water, with and without lifejackets with experienced anglers to give them a more real experience.
Henry said “The first time I
jumped in I was in my regular fishing gear (breathable waders, wading boots, jacket and lure bag, plus a lure rod in my right hand) – and haul myself out, then they got the wave machine going and I jumped in again, with no lifejacket again…
“Holy cow it’s a whole different story once there’s a bit of sea. Talk about a wake-up call.”
Read more on www.henrygilbey.com
There have been scores of anglers who got to go home to their families because of the RNLI and they’re still out there in all weathers.
I’m always glad to catch up with our local lifeboat station volunteers around their safety roadshows when they’re at the Angling Centre Open Weekends, the Largs RNLI station or other events.
Alongside the safety advice at these shows, they have historical documents and
personal stories that reflect the role the charity has played. The RNLI are celebrating their centennial this year with the “200 Voices Podcast”.
The series covers everything from the launch of the institution in the early 1800s, to stories of dramatic rescues and families reunited to celebrities such as Tanni Grey-Thompson and Griff Rhys Jones. These 10-15 minute episodes are a fantastic, heartwarming view into a charity that goes above and beyond every day of the week. ● If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer visit rnli.org/support-us/volunteer/ how-you-can-volunteer
Come along and visit the team at the Glasgow Angling Centre Open Weekend, March 8-10, 2024, or keep an eye out for events near you.
Bring your lifejacket for testing and pick up some expert safety advice.