RNLI Donations

[ollyit]

Joined the RNLI offshore at the last rib show I went to - a well worthy cause, I may even up my current contribution does everyone on here donate?

[Nick Hearne]

Hi funny that joined today!
Very easy on line.
Nick

[Phil Chitty]

I joined about 5 years ago before I got my first Rib.

Current donation is £6 a month plus a bit because of the tax benefits to the RNLI.

A worthy cause.

Phil

[Phil Davies]

I joined online this week as an Offshore member (£54)

[tim griffin]

I had to join as brotherinlaw is training coxswain at Training college Poole,but it is the best in the world in terms of course delivery, training, and equipment and such a unique organisation in that it is completley free from Goverment funding everyone who goes to sea should join as a matter of course.
regards tim
www.griffmarineservices.co.uk

[Gentiana]

I joined originally after having to make a call on C16!! I was so embarrased, but the LB crew made it a most interesting and enjoyable experience.

The reason for my contribution to this thread is to recommend, for both new and experienced RIBers, 'The RNLI Handbook' - This is the best money you will spend, a vital RIB accessory and an interesting read.

Peter

[Allen]

I'm an Offshore member and have been what we now call the Lifeboat Operations Manager for the Peel Lifeboat for umpteen years.

You're all dead right, the RNLI is well worth supporting.

Don't ever be worried about being in trouble and the Lifeboat being called to assist you. You'll get no grief from either Lifeboat crews or Coastguards.

The most important thing in my experience is to contact the Coastguard as early as possible. Even if you just have a little feeling things are going wrong and you may need assistance, just let them know. They don't have to take any action there and then but at least we are aware of a potential situation and can monitor it and respond accordingly. All too often crews will spend too much time trying to rectify a problem and only call the Coastguard as a last resort when they are the verge of total disaster.

Frequently we are called out at night to locate a boat only to find later that it had in fact been broken down for hours and the crew only called for assistance when it got dark!

Please, please just keep the Coastguard informed.

I suppose I should say that this is a personal opinion and does not necessarily reflect the views of the RNLI etc etc

Allen

[Rogue Wave]

We have been asked and agreed to run rib rides on the Calshott lifeboat open day this year. We supply the boat driver and fuel and the lifeboats get all the money for the rides, which seems a good way to show our appreciation.

So why don't you all turn up and buy a ride we will offer a discount to all you 4 strokers out there so you can see what a good 2 stroke can do.

Also spare a thought for the local rescue services they are independent and struggle for funding sometimes.

Very sensible comments in the previous posts. By the way have you all done a free sea safety check. Ive seen the Handbook is it like a Filofax and how do you get one

[ollyit]

I'll be most definitely taking the free sea safety check when I know my boats up to scratch - to see whether I missed anything

[Rogue Wave]

do it before and then you'll have alist of what to do