Lifebelts Unsatisfactory

Manawatu Times, Volume 63, Issue 46, 24 February 1938, Page 6

Lifebelts Unsatisfactory

DEATH OF itfAVAL VOLUNTEER RESERVISTS. Per Pi esa Association. WELLINGTON, Feb. 23. Dissatisfaction with the lifebelts provided in the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve whaleboat was expressed by a Lieutenant at the inquest on the death of Jameu Wood Jarvis, aged 17, who was drowned on November 7th. It was stated that the type of lifesaving gear provided was very unjpopular with members as it was liable to be caught in the ropes and the ship’s gear in the event cf a capsize. Evidence was given that this happened in this case. Coroner Gilbertson found that deceased was accidently drowned on November 7th by the capsize of a naval whaleboat in Wellington Harbour, he being at the i.iine a member of the crew. Jarvis was an apprentice at the Hutt railway workshops. The boat went to Soames Island under Lieutenant Phipps and capsized in-rough weathtir on the way back, and deceased’s lifebelt was caught in the rigging and he was held under the water for some time. He was brought to the surface in a very weak condition and was supported, but later disappeared and wlaß not seen again. The rest of the crew had a very trying experience in a heavy sea, clinging to the boat for two and a half hours before being Tescued by a launch.