You receive a letter from the RNLI, you open it and see ‘Invitation to attend a Special Visitor Day in Poole’. What should you do? Cancel, postpone or decline any other event on that same date! Why? So that you can experience a truly wonderful and informative day hearing and seeing for yourselves how the RNLI operates to save countless lives.

My wife and I attended such a day last year with about 20 others. We were all totally absorbed in each of the sessions, which were delivered professionally and with some humour. 

We salute those brave men and women who go to sea, the engineers, the other staff, the supporters and fundraisers. Long may the RNLI retain its role and independence! We were so inspired that we elected to become lifetime joint governors as a small way of saying thanks to the RNLI for the invitation.

Anonymous

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The Editor comments:
These special days are provided for supporters who pledge a gift to the RNLI in their Will, and take place at both RNLI College and some of the more accessible lifeboat stations around the coast. To find out more, contact Mark Allwood, Legacy Enquiries Manager at Headquarters.

For a shorter but no less exciting experience, why not take a college discovery tour? They’re open to all

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I’d be interested to learn what happens in the aftermath of recovering a vessel in danger – is the RNLI able to secure an insurance settlement in the way of salvage?

Thanks in anticipation.
David Verity

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Our Operational colleague Peter Bradley replies:
There are internationally agreed rules around claiming salvage that put the person engaged in a salvage operation into a legally binding contract with the Master/Skipper and owners of the vessel being salvaged.

In our case, a lifeboat crew would become liable for the operation, including any damage to the environment – so we simply do not do it.

Most survivors are very grateful to be rescued and a donation or some other benefit is made over to the RNLI. We also have a good relationship with the marine insurance industry and are able to attract favourable terms for the RNLI and its supporters.

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I went to your Open Weekend in July. But when I was looking at the engines I lost my balloon. Will you see if you can get it back down?

Mum thinks you will tie it to one of your lifeboats to cheer up the people you rescue. Is this right?
Sophie, age 7

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Stormy Stan assures us:
All of my crew will be looking out for your balloon and promise to put it to good use! Thank you for all your support!