Emergency crews respond to two incidents in the Bristol Channel
RNLI Portishead volunteers were called out twice in one day
Last updated 24th Feb 2026
RNLI volunteers in Portishead faced two separate emergencies over the weekend (22nd February).
The first incident began when RNLI Portishead's crew received a pager alert at 11:54am as they concluded their morning training session.
The crew was tasked by HM Coastguard to investigate an Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) activation reported between Middle Grounds and Chepstow in the Bristol Channel.
"Our crew were tasked by HM Coastguard to investigate an EPIRB activation reported between Middle Grounds and Chepstow in the Bristol Channel."
Alongside crews from RNLI Penarth Lifeboat Station and Severn Area Rescue Association - Beachley, as well as HM Coastguard Chepstow, emergency teams rushed to the area to begin their search.
During the search for the EPIRB, RNLI Portishead's crew was redirected following reports from walkers about a person spotted in the water near Walton Bay.
"While SAR (search and rescue) assets were actively searching, RNLI Portishead crew were re-tasked following reports from walkers of a person seen in the water near Walton Bay."
They shifted their focus to the new location near Portishead while other emergency services continued the EPIRB search.
At Walton Bay, the RNLI crew found the person on rocks near the shoreline.
One of the crew members swam ashore to assist and was soon joined by the police, Portishead Coastguard Rescue Team, and Coastguard Rescue Helicopter 387 from St Athan.
The person was recovered from the rocks by land.
"Our deepest condolences go out to the family and friends of the person found."
Following the first incident, the crew returned to the lifeboat station to help continue the search for the EPIRB, which was eventually located by Rescue Helicopter 387 at Portishead Marina.
HM Coastguard Chepstow discovered it discarded in a bin at the marina.
This marked the second incident within four days where EPIRBs had been disposed of incorrectly, causing a large-scale search operation.
HM Coastguard Chepstow has provided important information regarding the proper disposal of EPIRBs to prevent false activations that put pressure on emergency resources:
They said: "False activations place significant demand on emergency resources, so correct disposal is essential."
The message is:
- Deactivate – Ensure the device is completely switched off and, if possible, remove the battery to prevent accidental activation.
- Contact the Manufacturer – Many manufacturers offer specific disposal or recycling schemes.
- Use Appropriate Waste Facilities – Contact your local council for guidance on hazardous waste or electronic recycling centres.
- Update the Registry – If replacing your EPIRB, update your details with the UK Beacon Registry to ensure your old device is no longer registered to you.