NATIONAL LIFEBOAT INSTITUTION

Dominion, Volume 33, Issue 87, 6 January 1940, Page 12

NATIONAL LIFEBOAT INSTITUTION

Many Rescues Since War Began (British Official Wireless.) RUGBY", January 4. Tlie exceptionally heavy demands made upon the services of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution during the past four months because of the brutal and indiscriminate use of mines and torpedoes by Germany, tire reflected in a review of the year’s work of tills great voluntary society. The institution, which maintains a fleet of lifeboats and life-saving apparatus round the British coasts, and is served by fisherman crews, is entirely supported by voluntary contributions. During 1939 a total of 1356 lives was saved, constituting a record in the history of the institution, tlie previous highest figure being 1348 in 1917. In order to effect these rescues lifeboats were launched 677 times. Most of these launches and consequent rescues have been effected during the war.

Since September 2 boats have been out 411 times and have rescued 1101 persons, au average of 64 each war week.

Twenty-four medals for gallantry were awarded during the year to members of lifeboat crews. Tlie institution put into service 17 new motor-lifeboats during the year, and there are now 145 of these and 15 sailing lifeboats stationed round the British and Irish ‘coasts. .