Wells inshore lifeboat Peter Wilcox assists two casualties cut off by the tide
Tuesday 9 September Wells RNLI volunteer crew launched lifeboat Peter Wilcox to assist two casualties cut off by the tide at Holkham bay
At 8.31pm, Humber Coastguard requested the immediate launch of the lifeboat. The volunteer crew were paged at 8:33pm and the lifeboat, with a crew of three, launched from the north slipway at the boathouse at 8.43pm.
Inshore Peter Wilcox proceeded quickly down the harbour channel into Holkham bay, on launching the lifeboat quickly proceeded down the harbour channel and into Holkham bay.
The crew quickly identified the location of the two casualties at 8.55pm. Checking they were unharmed and required no medical assistance the crew helped transfer them safely on board and escorted them to the main beach at Lady Anne’s drive.
At 9:00pm the casualties were transferred into the care of the local Coastguard rescue team. Both were safe and well and were escorted back to their vehicle in the car park.
Mandy Humphreys Wells RNLI Water safety officer said: ‘Being cut off by the tide in the dark is a dangerous and scary situation to be in as the casualties this evening confirmed. The large moons that we are currently experiencing are always associated with bigger than average tides. So, there will be areas of beach and marsh that will be covered by sea water that aren’t normally.’
Mandy continued: ‘If you are cut off by the tide, like the casualties for the last two evenings, call 999 immediately. Wading through unknown areas of sea water in the dark is not a safe idea. To avoid getting cut off by the tide, especially during these large tides, get off the beach/marsh at least four hours before Wells Bar high tide.’
HM Coastguards stood down Peter Wilcox at 9.13pm, the volunteer crew returned to station. The lifeboat was recovered ashore at 9.30pm and following a washdown and refuelling, was ready again for service at 10.00pm.
RNLI Media contacts For more information, please contact Jess Curtis, RNLI Regional Engagements North and East, Lifeboat Press Officer at Wells: Tel 07483488243 Email: [email protected] contact the RNLI Press Office on 01202 336789.
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