TWO BOYS RESCUED FROM INFLATABLE A MILE OFFSHORE

Two boys, aged seven and eight, were rescued from an inflatable boat a mile off Pwllheli this afternoon after the mother of one of the boys alerted the Coastguards at just before .

The strong offshore breeze had carried the inflatable a long way out to sea and the other mother swam out to try and rescue the boys. Although she did reach the inflatable she too then had to be rescued.

After receiving the 999 call Holyhead Coastguard sent the RNLI Pwllheli Inshore Lifeboat to the scene. They rescued the boys from the inflatable dingy and the woman plucked from the water. They were taken back to shore where they were met by Abersoch Coastguard Rescue Team and assessed by paramedics.

Barry Priddis, Coastguard Watch Manager said:
“Inflatables are fun but with a strong offshore wind, like we had today at Pwllheli, they can be swept out to sea very quickly. We were lucky today that the three people involved were all returned to shore safe and well and weren’t seriously injured.

“If you’re using an inflatable make sure it’s tethered to someone on the shore. If you do see one being carried out to sea tell those onboard to stay on the inflatable, dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard. Swimming out to sea can seem like the right thing to do but cold water and brisk tides can frequently mean that the rescuer also gets into difficulties. The best thing you can do is stay on the shore and keep the inflatable in sight so you can direct the lifeboat when it turns up on scene.”

-Ends –

For further information please contact:
Maritime and Coastguard Agency Press Office, on:
(023) 8032 9401

Notes to Editors

  1. The MCA is a partner in the Sea Vision UK campaign to raise awareness and understanding of the sea and maritime activities.  Sea Vision promotes the importance and economic value of the sector and works to highlight the exciting range of activities and career opportunities available to young people within the UK growing maritime sector. www.seavisionuk.org
                        
  1. Stay safe - before heading out on the water get trained, check weather and tides, wear a lifejacket, avoid alcohol and keep in touch

  1. Follow us on Twitter. Find us at MCA_media

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