The UK’s Falmouth Maritime Rescue Co-ordination Centre (MRCC) is currently out of action following a lightning strike late last night. Until further notice its monitoring and co-ordination functions are being undertaken by Brixham MRCC.
Following the lightning strike at around 11:00 p.m. on Jan. 17, Falmouth MRCC was evacuated because of smoke coming from electrical equipment. Cornwall Fire Brigade were asked to attend. The building was checked and although physically unmarked there appears to be significant damage to the communications equipment.
While out of action Falmouth MRCC's emergency calls are being handled by colleagues at Brixham MRCC. Coastguard Officers are operating three remote stations at The Lizard, Trevose and Lands End. These remote stations will undertake radio checks, monitor radio frequencies and respond to alerts from shipping.
Richard Parkes, Duty Director for the MCA said "I'm relieved that none of our staff were injured. All our MRCCs are paired with another for exactly a situation like this so Brixham should be able to operate as Falmouth without the public even realising. We're extending our operations by using the remote stations at The Lizard, Trevose and Lands End so I'm confident that we can continue to provide our usual co-ordination service until Falmouth is returned to full working order."