The RNLI (Royal National Lifeboat Institution) is a non-profit organization that performs rescues in the seas around the United Kingdom, Ireland, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man, as well as on some interior waterways. The organization was founded in 1824 and is reported to have saved over 139,000 lives since its inception. RNLI currently relies on over 40,000 volunteers who perform a variety of functions, form crewing lifeboats to fundraising.

See the RNLI in action in the YouTube video of a lifeboat launch in rough seas:

The RNLI also publishes a Guide to Sea Safety that every boater can benefit from.