Saving Lives at Sea

20124 series
Available on
BBC Two

Follows the ordinary men and women who volunteer with the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), risking their lives every day to save others who are in danger. With bases across Britain the RNLI are prepared to attend rescue calls around the clock and in any weather condition. Operating for more than 150 years, the organisation has saved over 140,000 people from life-threatening situations out at sea. During the winter months the elements become treacherous posing more risks to people venturing in the harsh waters, in turn increasing the number of challenging rescue missions for the brave volunteers.

Saving Lives at Sea in World War II: Episode Image
Episode 1Saving Lives at Sea in World War II

Dermot O’Leary uncovers the RNLI’s heroic efforts in World War Two.

Manhunt: Episode Image
Episode 2Manhunt

The Dungeness crew learn that the casualty they’re rescuing is the subject of a manhunt.

Every Second Counts: Episode Image
Episode 3Every Second Counts

Fisherman’s Fight For Life. The Porthcawl crew attempt to resuscitate a fisherman who’s been swept out to sea. Contains some upsetting scenes.

First Time for Everything: Episode Image
Episode 4First Time for Everything

Boat Sinking Fast. In Burnham-on-Sea, the crew are called out to a Mayday from a sinking houseboat.

Caught Out: Episode Image
Episode 5Caught Out

Caught Out On The Causeway. The Queensferry RNLI crew drag a barely conscious man out of the water.

Trust: Episode Image
Episode 6Trust

Spinal Emergency. The Humber crew must pull off the dangerous medivac of a fisherman with a spinal injury.

Knife Edge: Episode Image
Episode 7Knife Edge

Channel Crossing Emergency. The Walmer crew respond to reports of a small boat emergency in the English Channel. Contains upsetting scenes.

Pressure: Episode Image
Episode 8Pressure

Crash Landing. In Port Isaac, the crew race to the rescue of a female casualty with a spinal injury.

Pride: Episode Image
Episode 9Pride

Trapped By The Tide. The Minehead crew come close to disaster in the challenging rescue of two walkers.

Hidden Dangers: Episode Image
Episode 10Hidden Dangers

Swim For Your Life. The Porthcawl crew race to the rescue of a swimmer who’s been caught in a rip current.

How to watch Saving Lives at Sea