Beach safety reminder as RNLI rescue two teenagers cut off by the tide
As this week’s big tides coincide with hot, sunny weather and many people enjoying the coast during the school summer holiday, the RNLI is reminding coastal visitors how to keep themselves and their families safe.
This reminder from the lifesaving charity comes after a recent rescue by Porthcawl RNLI volunteer lifeboat crew, who saved two teenagers stranded on a rock with a rapidly rising tide.
Tirion Dowsett, RNLI Water Safety Delivery Support, said:
‘With the large tides and sunny weather forecast this week, we are reminding people to always check the tide times and take a means of calling for help – such as a fully charged mobile phone. If you are planning on entering the water, we’d always recommend choosing a lifeguarded beach and swimming between the red and yellow flags.’
It was around 6.45pm on Sunday 27 July when Porthcawl RNLI were paged by HM Coastguard, following a 999 call reporting that two teenagers were stuck on a rocky outcrop with waves washing over the rocks near Newton Point, Porthcawl. The charity's D class lifeboat Hugo Missen was launched with three volunteer crew onboard.
Chris Page, Porthcawl Lifeboat Press Officer and Crew Member said:
‘Time was really of the essence with this shout, as there was still over two hours until high water.’
Once the lifeboat arrived on scene the teenagers could be seen on a rock, with one of them having grazed their arm due to scrambling. Chris continued:
‘A crew member was transferred onto the rock to provide the casualties with lifejackets and was able to reassure them and help transfer them safely over to the lifeboat.’
Although wet with some minor cuts, thankfully both casualties were well and the lifeboat crew brought them back to the beach at Newton where they were met by Porthcawl and Port Talbot Coastguard Rescue Teams, who provided minor first aid treatment.
Chris said:
‘We have one of the biggest tidal ranges in the world and it’s easy to get caught out, especially if you are not familiar with the area. Check the tide times on a trusted source like the Met Office and remember there may be local differences depending on where you are and what tide table you are reading.’
Tirion added:
‘This time of year we expect more people to be visiting the coast and it should be an amazing experience, creating great memories. Taking just a few simple steps to ensure you stay safe means everyone can return home with those fond memories.
‘The large spring tides forecast this week mean areas affected by tidal cut off may be cut off faster than normal, and areas not normally known for tidal cut off may see incidents occur.
‘Ask someone if you are not sure what the tide table means – the lifeguards are especially helpful and knowledgeable about the beach they work on.
‘It’s hard to imagine how walking can turn out to be such a dangerous activity, this is why it’s important to always check the tide times at the start of your day, keep an eye out for the incoming tide and leave enough time to return safely.
‘If you get into trouble in the water, Float to Live. Tilt your head back with ears submerged and try to relax and control your breathing. Use your hands to help you stay afloat and then call for help or swim to safety if you can.
‘If you spot anyone else in difficulty, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.
‘Please share these messages with your family and friends, we want everyone to enjoy our beautiful coast, and to stay safe whilst doing so.’
If you ever find yourself in difficulty in the water, remember Float to Live:
- Tilt your head back with ears submerged
- Relax, breathe normally and move your hands and legs to help you stay afloat
- It’s ok if your legs sink, we all float differently
- Once you’re over the initial shock, call for help or swim to safety.
Notes to editor:
- RNLI spokespeople are available for media interviews on request.
RNLI Media Contacts
For more information, please contact RNLI Regional Communications Manager, Claire Fitzpatrick-Smith, on
[email protected]
/ 07977 728 315. For out of hours enquiries please contact the RNLI Press Office on 01202 336 789.
Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,700 lives.
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