Pyrotechnic flare leads to rescue off the Isle of Wight
13/02/2026
Cowes RNLI were returning back to their station after a training session on February 2nd when they spotted a red emergency flare in the distance along with DSC message indicating that a vessel was in distress.
After a crew change, the HM Coastguard were contacted and the RNLI team were tasked with assisting a 7.2 metre rib that was in distress after engine failure with three people onboard, immobile in rough conditions where wave heights reached close to 3m.
After travelling closer to the vessel, with the assistance of an additional red emergency distress flare, the casualty crew were rescued and taken to Cowes RNLI station where they were underwent medical observation and were provided new clothing before travelling back to the mainland via ferry.
The vessel was observed by the HM Coastguard and later recovered by Bembridge RNLI, safely being returned to Cowes.
This successful mission was undoubtedly made possible with the use of emergency flares to both signify the vessel that was in distress and also to pinpoint its location once the RNLI were in closer proximity to the vessel.
Source: @cowesRNLI Instagram Page
Image: @cowesRNLI Instagram Page
