ANGLERS – CHECK WEATHER AND TIDES BEFORE YOU SET OUT, SAY HUMBER COASTGUARD


Humber Coastguard is asking anglers to check weather and tidal conditions, wear a lifejacket and to tell a shore contact where they are going and when they expect to return before they embark on a fishing trip. Their request comes after four men were reported to be in danger on Cinderella Rock at Easington yesterday afternoon. They were spotted by a dog walker, who at first thought that they were four boys and was concerned that they had been cut off by the tide. With a two and a half metre swell, waves were breaking over the top of the rock and on top of the four anglers.
 
The Hartlepool all weather and inshore RNLI lifeboats were requested to launch and a helicopter from RAF Boulmer was also scrambled. The Seaham Coastguard Rescue Team was also sent to the scene. When the teams arrived on scene, however, the four anglers refused to leave the rock, preferring instead to stay and continue with their afternoon’s fishing.
 
Graham Dawson, Humber Coastguard Watch Manager says:
 
"We want to encourage everyone to enjoy our beautiful coastline, but planning is vital and an important part of this is considering weather and tidal conditions. Yesterday, northerly winds and a two and a half metre swell meant that Cinderella Rock was probably a little too perilous to attempt. However, a quick call to the Coastguard beforehand would have meant that we were forewarned and could call out assistance quickly should it be required.
 
"If you’re planning a day’s angling from rocks wear a lifejacket; check weather and tidal conditions; tell a shore contact where you are going and when you intend to be back – tell them to call 999 and ask for the coastguard if you don’t return on time; wear suitable footwear such as stout walking boots (waders or Wellington boots are not suitable); and take a torch and a mobile phone with you.”

 

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