New data released by the RNLI shows that lifeboat crews and beach lifeguards saved a total of 506 lives last year, which equates to more than one life every day.

This includes 1,217 launches to motorboats and 864 to sailing vessels/dinghies, with the overall number of launches standing at 9,312 times – an increase of five per cent on the previous year. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 143,000 lives.

The data – captured between January and December 2022 – highlight just how busy the charity’s volunteer lifeboat crews have been. RNLI lifeboat crews saved the lives of 389 people over the course of 2022, whilst the charity’s beach lifeguards saw 117 lives saved.

In response, the RNLI is putting out a Mayday call – asking the public to support its lifesavers by signing up to the Mayday Mile, a challenge to cover a mile a day for the month of May. All money raised will help to provide the training and equipment that is needed to keep its lifesavers safe, while they risk their own lives to save others.

“The RNLI has been saving lives at sea for very nearly 200 years,” says Pete Emmett, head of engagement. “Our incredible lifeboat crews across the UK and Ireland launched over 9,000 times last year to help those in need, and our lifeguards kept people safe across hundreds of beaches. We are so proud of our brave and selfless lifesavers.

“As a charity, we rely on the generous support of members of the public to continue this lifesaving work. We need ongoing fundraising – now, more than ever – to keep providing our lifesavers with the best equipment and training for their important lifesaving role, which is why we’re calling on people to support our lifesavers this May.”

Catch up with all the RNLI’s latest news with MIN.

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