For most likely the RNLI's busiest weekend of the year - up to 200 lifeboat launches are anticipated for the August bank holiday - the charity is encouraging the public to show their support by downloading a 'lifeboat launch alerter' from www.rnli.org.uk/pager.

People can become 'virtual crew members' from the comfort of their own homes or workplace by logging on and registering their details to receive a free 'pager' that displays on their computer desktop when a lifeboat is launched. There is the option to choose launch alerts for individual RNLI lifeboat stations, regional groups of stations or all 232 stations around the coasts of the UK and Republic of Ireland. Alison O'Neill, RNLI's emedia manager, says:

'Every time the pager pings onto the screen it means that RNLI volunteers are dropping everything and heading out to sea to help someone who could be in trouble - there are on average 20 lifeboat launches a day and this pager really shows just what a busy and vital service RNLI lifeboats provide. This is a fantastic opportunity for people to get involved in their local lifeboat station and the RNLI charity. We live in a digital age and we hope this virtual pager will bring the RNLI even closer to its supporters.'