RNLI issue tidal safety warning in Wales ahead of bank holiday weekend
The RNLI is issuing a tidal safety warning ahead of the bank holiday weekend, after an increase in people being cut off by the tide.
Footage of West Shore in Llandudno being cut off by incoming tide: https://rnli.org/video-player/9F93789F-C659-443D-8E4F5ED0394D1DB9
The RNLI is encouraging people to be cautious and well prepared as we approach the risk of spring tides over the bank holiday weekend.
On Saturday morning, the RNLI rescued a man at Gower beach, Swansea, after being cut off by the incoming tide at Worms Head, Rhossili. Both Horton and Port Eynon RNLI Lifeboat stations responded to the stranded man, and he was safety brought back to Rhossili.
Chris Cousens, RNLI Regional Water Safety Lead says:
‘With the May bank holiday, a prime opportunity for coastal walks, it’s important to be safe. Tide times and heights vary throughout the month, and the incoming tide can easily leave people stranded, requiring assistance.
‘There will be spring tides over this coming weekend meaning a greater difference between low and high tide, therefore at high tide the water comes in further and can move faster than on smaller tides. On bigger tides, places will be cut off by the tide more quickly than normal and places usually unaffected by the tide may also be cut off.
‘If you find yourself, or see anyone else in difficulty, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.’
Tirion Dowsett, Water Safety Delivery Support says:
‘If you are planning on visiting the coast over the next few days, check the tide times before you go. If you can’t understand the information on tide tables, ask people who know the area and pay attention to any safety signs.
‘Always carry a means of calling for help, like a fully charged mobile phone.
‘If you do get into difficulty, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.
‘If you do get into difficulty in the water, remember to Float to Live. Tilt your head back with your ears submerged in the water, relax and float on your back with your arms and legs spread out like a starfish. Once your breathing is under control, you can signal for help by shouting and waving.’
Notes to editors
- Water Safety spokespeople are available for interview.
- Link to video footage of West Shore in Llandudno being cut off by the tide: https://rnli.org/video-player/9F93789F-C659-443D-8E4F5ED0394D1DB9
RNLI media contacts
For more information please contact Danielle Rush, RNLI Regional Communications Lead for Wales, the North West and Isle of Man on 07786 668829 or [email protected].
Alternatively you can contact Claire Fitzpatrick-Smith, Regional Communications Manager on [email protected] or 07977 728315, or contact the RNLI Press Office on 01202 336789.
Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,700 lives.
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Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries
Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.