Two canoeists rescued from Beauly Firth


Just after 2 pm today UK Coastguard received a number of 999 calls from members of the public saying that they could see an upturned canoe and two people in the water at Beauly Firth, Inverness.

UK Coastguard immediately sent the Inverness Coastguard Rescue Team to the area along with the Kessock RNLI Lifeboat.
As the Coastguard Rescue Team arrived on the scene a member of the public had helped recover one of the canoeists to the shore. The remaining canoeist was brought ashore by the Kessock RNLI Lifeboat, both canoeists were placed into the care of waiting Ambulances.
The canoeists reported being in the water for nearly an hour, both were extremely cold and tired.
Jonathan Mustard, UK Coastguard said:
"The two canoeists were extremely lucky, thankfully they were wearing lifejackets and if it was not for a member of the public spotting them, we could be looking at a very different outcome."
"It's important that you check weather forecasts and tidal conditions and ensure that your skill levels are appropriate for where you are canoeing. It's always a good idea to carry a mobile phone in a waterproof bag and let someone know your passage plan. If possible I would recommend carrying a 406 Personal Locator Beacon especially if you are planning on visiting remote locations."


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