Anglers waving from a boat off the coast of Ness sparked a false alarm tonight.
People onshore believed they were in distress and signalling for help.
Coastguards were notified and the rescue helicopter at Stornoway attended.
Stornoway lifeboat sped to the scene off the Butt of Lewis.
Unaware of the emergency operation heading their way, the occupants of the boat continued fishing.
A coastguard spokesman said the incident was a "false alarm with good intent."
Waving anglers spark helicopter callout
30 June 2015