Sailors get lost in the snow

London, 6 April/GNN/ -- MARITIME AND COASTGUARD AGENCY News Release (Duty 2) issued by The Government News Network on 6 April 2008 Solent Coastguard is warning leisure sailors to be fully prepared b

Rescue units were sent to help two yachts in the Solent this morning, the
first at 8.35am on the approach to Portsmouth with Gosport and Fareham
Independent Lifeboat attending and the second yacht got into difficulty
North East of Bembridge at 8.52am with Bembridge RBLI lifeboat attending.

Solent Coastguard has also sent rescue units to help two small motor boats
in the Shoreham area who became lost in poor visibility in snow with both
Shoreham RNLI lifeboats attending these vessels.

Mathew West of Solent Coastguard says,
"Leisure sailors must check forecasts carefully and if poor visibility
is likely then be prepared and competent to navigate in those conditions.
This includes having on board a working VHF radio and GPS as well as being
able to use maritime charts."

For further information contact Duty Press Officer on 07917 555634
Or during office hours MCA Press Office on: (023) 8032 9401
Press releases and further information is available at www.mcga.gov.uk

Source: Maritime and Coastguard Agency

2008-04-06 07:56:02 0328786 PRNEWSWIRE