Sunderland Coastguard's safety warning after call out to broken down speedboat on River Wear

Sunderland Coastguard Rescue Team was called out at 9.29am on Saturday, July 11 after a member of the public alerted them to two men whose speedboat appeared to have broken down, via social media.

The boat was located alongside the west end of Southwick Promenade, with the two crew members having safely reached shore after it emerged that one of the men had entered the water and towed the vessel.

Sunderland RNLI inshore lifeboat also attended the incident and the boat was towed to Hylton slipway where it was taken away by a trailer.

Volunteers have now urged the public not to enter the water in these circumstances and to remain on board and call for assistance.

A spokesperson said: “Sunderland Coastguard Rescue Team was tasked to a report of a speedboat with two occupants being in difficulties on the River Wear at Southwick.

"The boat was located alongside the west end of Southwick Promenade, the two crew members having safely reached shore after one had entered the water and towed the craft alongside.

"Sunderland RNLI inshore lifeboat attended and towed the vessel to Hylton slipway where it was placed on a trailer. We do not recommend entering the water in such circumstances but to remain on board and call for help.”

The team has also reminded people that all emergencies must be reported to HM Coastguard via 999/112 or Marine VHF radio Channel 16, as their social media pages are not continually monitored.

They added: “This report originated from a member of the public using RNLI social media. Fortunately, this was picked up promptly but as social media is not always continuously monitored all water emergencies must be reported to HM Coastguard via 999/112 or Marine VHF radio Channel 16.

"Pleasure boat owners are advised to take advantage of the RNLI Advice on Board Scheme to ensure guidance is given regarding safety equipment and measures for pleasure boats. Contact your local RNLI station for further information.”

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