Smart Device Health Alert Prompts Sea Rescue

A multi-agency sea rescue operation was initiated after a smart device detected a medical issue. The device transmitted an alert to a contact centre, which subsequently notified HM Coastguard on Monday morning. Due to the yacht’s location and onboard equipment, HM Coastguard was unable to establish direct communication with the 40ft (12m) vessel. Consequently, they alerted the RNLI and an Irish coastguard helicopter. However, a passenger ferry was the first to reach the yacht, situated 28 miles off the Fishguard coast. The Stena Nordica ferry, operating its Rosslare to Fishguard service, diverted its course to the yacht’s last known position. Its crew located the yacht and remained alongside it, transmitting updates to Milford Haven coastguards until the helicopter’s arrival and a paramedic was winched onto the yacht. The casualty was then transported to Ireland for further medical attention. Once the helicopter and lifeboat were present at the scene, the Stena Nordica resumed its voyage to Fishguard. Cedwyn Rogers from the RNLI stated: “This is the first time I’ve heard of an emergency response being initiated by a personal smart device so it was an interesting shout for crew demonstrating how useful technology can be.” Rogers further remarked that if the casualty had been a lone sailor, this alert might have been the sole notification received. He concluded by extending wishes for a speedy recovery to the casualty and advising all water users to ensure they possess appropriate communication equipment for their activity and journey, keeping it accessible at all times.