Trouble flying thick and fast
The SNSM rescue station at Carro, Bouches du Rhône, is equipped with the Canot Tous Temps 73, launched in 1992. This 17.60 m vessel is powered by two IVECO blocks, each developing 360 hp. However, one of these engines gave up the ghost at the beginning of June 2023. As the vessel is due to be replaced by a new-generation dinghy, the replacement of the faulty engine is currently under discussion. This is a very costly operation.
To ensure its rescue operations at the start of the summer season, the station was loaned a 7.5 m semi-rigid, powered by two 115 hp Yamaha engines. As soon as it was delivered, the vessel underwent a complete overhaul and check-up before being launched.
A theft with far-reaching consequences
The RIB was stored on its trailer, and in a closed park, when it was stolen, even before it had touched water again. Its disappearance was reported by the resort president at around 6am. The thieves travelled a few kilometers to hide in the hills of the Côte Bleue.
The RIB was stripped of its two engines and some equipment. A mountain biker found the boat in an unfortunate state and alerted the authorities.
The station, which carries out an average of forty interventions a year, is now deprived of all nautical resources. In the event of a major accident, it will be unable to intervene.
A call for help from rescuers
A fund has been set up to raise the money needed to replace the two engines, the link to which can be found at the foot of this article. All SNSM lifeguards are volunteers, and the station relies mainly on donations. Time is of the essence, and the Carro station needs to get back up and running as soon as possible before the summer vacations.
