P1-7 received a visit from our local Royal National Lifeboat Institute (R.N.L.I.) volunteers Kim and Johnathon yesterday.
They explained that there are over 4000 R.N.L.I volunteers in our country. Each person gives up their time for free to help others. They work very closely with the coastguard.
We learned that the lifeboat travels at 25 knots, which is equivalent to 32 miles per hour. The boys and girls agreed this was pretty fast for a boat.
Kim said that the longest ‘shout’ rescue job they have been on was over 20 hours, so the job can be physically demanding. They will respond from everything to a kayak in trouble to large ferries, wherever anyone needs help at sea. She also said that every volunteer receives basic lifesaving skills training such as C.P.R. Our P4-7 class have already practiced this skill with Tanya Ellis, our local paramedic.
Johnathon explained to everyone that if we ever fall in the water, the shock of the cold water can be very dangerous for our bodies. He said we should all ‘starfish’ float for a minute to let our bodies adjust to the cold before we try to swim. This safety tip could save our lives.
Johnathon showed us all the safety and protective clothing each RNLI officer has to wear when going out on a shout. It is all designed to protect them from the cold and to save their lives if they get into trouble. Everyone got to try on the helmet and the lifejacket. The life jacket is a very expensive piece of equipment, costing nearly £1000.
# Responsible Citizens
Photos uploaded by digital leaders Lillie and Maya
