Lifeboat crews and lifeguards across the UK and Eire saved greater than an individual a day from drowning in 2021, the Royal Nationwide Lifeboat Establishment (RNLI) has mentioned.
The charity saved 408 individuals final yr, a rise of 59 on 2020. Lifeboats have been launched 8,868 occasions, and crews helped a complete of 12,903 individuals – the equal of 35 a day.
The RNLI is launching its Mayday Mile marketing campaign, encouraging individuals to finish a mile’s stroll or run in Could to lift funds for the charity. RNLI lifeboat crew members will full the primary mile on Southend pier, carrying their uniforms.
Pete Emmett, the charity’s head of engagement, mentioned: “The RNLI has been saving lives at sea for nearly 200 years. We’ve seen a major improve within the variety of individuals across the UK and Eire needing our assist over the past yr, and we’re so proud that our courageous lifesavers have been there to avoid wasting them. However operating a 24/7 lifesaving emergency service is pricey and prices are rising, which is why we’re calling on individuals to assist our lifesavers.
“Each Mayday Mile accomplished will assist give our lifesavers the whole lot they should proceed to maintain individuals secure this summer time and past. It’s really easy to get entangled and to have enjoyable while saving lives – final yr we noticed miles coated on climbing partitions, house hoppers, paddleboards and carrying wellies stuffed with baked beans. We hope to see many extra individuals take up the fundraising problem this yr.”
In January the RNLI mentioned it was on target for its highest annual fundraising complete in its historical past, after an increase in public assist in response to rightwing assaults the charity confronted for saving the lives of asylum seekers crossing the Channel.
It raised greater than £200,000 in a single day after hitting again at criticisms equivalent to Nigel Farage’s declare that it was a “migrant taxi service”.