Chiswick RNLI serving the Thames for two decades

Chiswick RNLI lifeboat station is the second busiest in the UK and Ireland. Since The RNLI search and rescue service on the Thames started in 2002, Chiswick Lifeboat has attended over 3,500 incidents and rescued over 1,750 people.

Chiswick RNLI 2021 incidents to date: 86 shouts, 21 rescued people and 1 rescued car

Chiswick Lifeboat’s normal operating patch is between Richmond half tide lock and Battersea. With the powerful e-class lifeboat the crew can easily reach any incident well within the 15-minute target even if they are at one end of the patch.

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency requires attendance at an incident within 15 minutes. This means the crew have 90 seconds from the time of the call to launch from Chiswick Pier.

In order to launch within 90 seconds, Chiswick RNLI Lifeboat is manned 24 hours a day 365 days a year. Each 12-hour shift has a crew of 4.

E class lifeboat

The E class inshore lifeboat is the fastest in the RNLI fleet and is specially designed for the River Thames. With its powerful tidal currents, submerged debris and heavy traffic, the Thames can be dangerous for those on and by the water and the E class handles these challenging conditions.

Volunteering

There are many ways to volunteer at the RNLI, from lifeboat crews to press officers, fundraisers and retail. Fundraising teams organise a wide range of activities and events which last year raised £14 million to save lives.

The RNLI is entirely funded by public donations. Join or donate to Chiswick RNLI.