Over 50% of lifejackets found defective at RNLI safety event
A lifejacket clinic held recently by the RNLI in Eastbourne’s Sovereign Harbour discovered more than half of the lifejackets checked were defective.
At the event, held by Eastbourne RNLI Water Safety Team in conjunction with the Sovereign Harbour Berth Holders Association (SHBA), over 70 lifejackets were presented to the RNLI volunteers. Adhering to social distancing, the team verbally guided the owners through how to check for wear and tear and how to maintain their lifejackets.
Shockingly, 42 lifejackets were found to have defects, potentially rendering them useless.
“A lifejacket is a vital piece of lifesaving equipment for those engaged in water activities,” says David Phillips of Eastbourne RNLI Water Safety Team. “If you are unfortunate enough to end up in the water, a lifejacket will keep you afloat until our volunteer crews are able to rescue you.
“It is crucial therefore that these are maintained in working order.”
