Shoreham RNLI Rescues Diver with Suspected Decompression Sickness Near Rampion Wind Farm

A diver suffering from suspected decompression sickness was rescued by the volunteer crew of Shoreham RNLI on the evening of Saturday, 21 June. The incident occurred during a dive trip near the Rampion Wind Farm, south of Shoreham. At 6.10pm, the RNLI’s all-weather lifeboat Enid Collett was launched and quickly arrived on scene. The diver […]

A diver suffering from suspected decompression sickness was rescued by the volunteer crew of Shoreham RNLI on the evening of Saturday, 21 June.

The incident occurred during a dive trip near the Rampion Wind Farm, south of Shoreham. At 6.10pm, the RNLI’s all-weather lifeboat Enid Collett was launched and quickly arrived on scene. The diver was transferred onto the lifeboat where crew members provided vital first aid while awaiting the arrival of the HM Coastguard Rescue 175 helicopter.

The casualty was safely airlifted from the lifeboat and transported to hospital for further treatment.

Lifeboat second coxswain Simon Tugwell praised the team’s performance:

“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.”

The lifeboat returned to station at 8pm, was cleaned, refuelled and declared ready for service again by 8.27pm.

This incident highlights the vital role of RNLI volunteers and their partnership with HM Coastguard in saving lives at sea.