On Friday, June 7, 2019, Storm Miguel swept the Atlantic coast with gusts of more than 52 knots and more than 6 m of swell. Weather conditions that have caused a tragedy in the great family of sea rescuers, who are volunteers. Every day, they provide assistance to boaters in distress, not hesitating to put their lives in danger.
The SNSM all-weather Canoe, the Jack Morisseau, had gone on a rescue mission from a struggling fishing boat 1 mile off the coast. When it was 800 m from the coast, a breakwater capsized the lifeboat and it eventually ran aground on the beach. On board, seven volunteer rescuers, only four of whom were rescued.
"This tragic death causes great emotion in the family of Sea Rescuers and reminds us of the risks that our volunteers take every day to rescue people in difficulty at sea." says Xavier de la Gorce, President of the SNSM
Because let us not forget that the National Society for Sea Rescue (SNSM) is a non-profit association. It exists thanks to its 8?000 volunteers who work from 214 rescue stations throughout France (metropolitan and overseas). Volunteers who are trained to save the lives of others.
In 2018, Marine Rescuers rescued 30?000 people on and off the beaches.
This dramatic event is intended to raise awareness among boaters and the public of the association's important mission. It should be remembered that 80% of SNSM is financed by private resources, mainly from the generosity of the public and companies.
Above all, continue to support the SNSM, because without them, you may be the one who would risk your life.
