LIFEBOAT managers have asked local anglers to help them design an app as part of a project to improve safety for coastal fishermen.

Last year 11 people died in the UK following accidents while they were fishing on the coast from rocks or from boats.

Now the RNLI needs around 25 boat and rock angler volunteers from Bournemouth and Poole to participate in a hackathon called ‘Fish Hack’ at its Poole headquarters.

A hackathon is an event where computer programmers and others involved in software development come together to contribute experience and ideas.

Technical specialists will work with the anglers during two October evening sessions, ahead of the development of the prototype app.

It is hoped this app could become a reality by the end of the year.

RNLI coastal safety manager Chris Adams said: “The remote locations often favoured by anglers can leave them particularly vulnerable if the worst should happen, exacerbated by the fact that lifejacket wear is not common among the angling community, which greatly reduces their chances of survival if they end up in the water.

“Through its new angling safety programme the RNLI is urging all anglers to wear a lifejacket and, for those going to sea on a boat, check their through-hull fittings for leaks, carry a means of plugging a hole, and a means of calling for help.”

The RNLI says at least half of coastal angling fatalities last year occurred when victims were swept into the water from rocks due to freak waves or slippery, uneven surfaces.

In 2013 lifeboat crews rescued more than 1,100 anglers from boats off the coast.

Mr Adams said: “We hope that an app developed through the hackathon could help ensure important safety advice is taken account of.”

 

Volunteers for project

THE ‘Fish Hack’ event takes place at the RNLI’s Poole headquarters on Tuesday, October 7, and Wednesday, October 8.

Both sessions take place from 6.30-9.30pm.

Anyone interested should contact Chris Adams on Chris_Adams@rnli.

org.uk before the September 19 deadline.