Ramsey RNLI all weather lifeboat, the Mersey class Ann & James Ritchie, was launched on Wednesday, 6th September, afternoon at 1.45pm in response to an EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon) distress signal.

Belfast Coastguard requested the launch following a report of an EPIRB transmitting along the east of coast of the Isle of Man. Usually such an alarm indicates a vessel in serious danger. Ramsey lifeboat proceeded towards the last known bearing of the EPIRB transmitting the distress signal.

By 2.35pm the Coast Guard had established that the EPIRB activation had been accidental and the lifeboat and her volunteer crew were stood down and returned home.

Following the call out Ali Clague, Ramsey’s Mechanic and emergency Coxswain, said: ‘EPIRBs can be activated automatically or manually and undoubtedly are lifesavers. It is extremely important to regularly check that they are in good working order and we can put this one down as a false alarm with good intent.’