COASTGUARD URGE PUBLIC TO CHECK TIDE TIMES BEFORE BEACH WALKS THIS SPRING AND SUMMER

As the weather warms up Swansea Coastguard are urging the public to check tide times following four entirely separate incidents today involving members of the public being cut off by the rising tide.

Whilst on exercise earlier today, Burry Port RNLI lifeboat located two boys in difficulties, stranded on the rocks at Bluepool, Gower.  The lifeboat landed them ashore on the beach at Broughton bay.

Swansea Coastguard then had a call concerning four members of the public cut off by the tide at Sully Island. The Penarth Coastguard Rescue Team and Penarth lifeboat were tasked to transfer the casualties ashore.

Watchet Coastguard Rescue Team and Minehead RNLI lifeboat were the next teams to be tasked by Swansea Coastguard to assist two adults and two dogs that had become cut off by the tide near Grey Rock, Blue Anchor. They were all safely returned to the shore.

Finally this afternoon Swansea Coastguard was contacted by the assistant Pier Master at Penarth Pier concerning a group of people that were cut off by the tide just north of Penarth Pier. Luckily the group all managed to climb the rock armour, whilst keeping in contact on a mobile phone, and returned to safety with no assistance required.

Marc Lancey, Swansea Coastguard Watch Manager said,


“Always check the weather and tidal conditions before you set out for beach walks so that you can prepare accordingly.  At sea changes in tidal streams could make conditions worse, particularly if the wind and tide are against each other. Tidal heights may hide underwater hazards. Consider whether you could become cut off by the incoming tide, above all do not take risks. If you do ge into difficulty, dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard”

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