A.F.M. involved in rescue co-ordination operation

On Thursday, 20 March at about 1800 hours the Armed Forces of Malta Control Room, which also serves as the Malta Rescue Co-ordination Centre, was informed that on board an Italian Fishing Vessel Daniela L a sick crew member required medical attention. As the Daniela L was 105 miles to the South East of Malta, and due to the rough sea conditions, a timely boat rescue was impossible. Hence a helicopter capable of conducting night medical evacuations was alerted. Continuous contact was maintained with the Rescue Co-ordination Centre of Rome. Palermo Radio, Malta Radio and the Palace Tower Signal Station were alerted in order to effectively co-ordinate the operation. Information was obtained from the United States Coast Guard about ships in the vicinity of the Daniela L, which could render assistance.

Eventually the communications efforts made by both Italian and Maltese Coast Stations bore fruit and it was confirmed that the patient was not in danger of loss of life and hence after a proper situation analysis, taking into consideration all the factors of the case, including the inherent danger of a helicopter evacuation, the Daniela L was directed to proceed on her own steam into Grand Harbour. By 1820 hours she was safely in port and her ailing crew member could receive adequate medical attention.

The entire operation was co-ordinated by the A.F.M. Rescue Co-ordination Centre at Luqa.