Poole RNLI lifeboat crews rescued three people and two dogs after their boat ran aground.
HM Coastguard requested the launch at around 4.15pm on Wednesday after concerns were raised for a vessel that had become stranded in thick fog in Poole Harbour. Visibility was reported to be no more than 50 metres as the tide continued to fall.
The Atlantic lifeboat made a slow approach through the fog before locating the vessel, which was already high and dry on the mud. A crew member stepped through the soft mud to check the welfare of the three people and two dogs onboard.
With the tide not expected to rise for several hours and visibility still very poor, crews decided the safest option was to secure the vessel and evacuate those onboard.
Poole RNLI also launched its D class lifeboat, which was able to get closer in the shallow water. The three people and two dogs were transferred safely before being taken to Salterns Marina.
Helm Ed Davies said: “The visibility on launching was no more than 50 metres. Our crews were certainly tested on this service call but we train for situations like this and used the radar and navigation equipment onboard to locate the casualty and keep everyone safe.”
Both lifeboats were refuelled and ready for service again by 6.40pm. This was launch seven for Poole Lifeboat Station this year.
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