Safety advice from Ramsgate RNLI as the heatwave leaves people cut off by tide
On Saturday Ramsgate RNLI Inshore lifeboat was launched to the assistance of eight people cut off by the tide, and on Sunday Margate and Ramsgate lifeboats were launched to the assistance of reports of fifty people cut off by the tide.
A representative for the RNLI who lives in Broadstairs and has lived by the seaside most of her life said this:
‘I was discussing the weekend's events with my thirty year old daughter who has lived here all her life and was amazed to discover that she was not aware that the tide came in and out at least twice in a twenty four hour period'.
So, if someone who lives here is not aware of the dangers how can we expect people from inland who only visit the seaside on rare occasions to be aware? We are an island surrounded by water with 19,000 miles of coastline covered by our lifeboats and everyone should make themselves aware of the risks that are involved when spending time at the sea'.
Although people who are not used to Thanet's beaches can quickly get cut off by the tide, many locals are aware that they will be cut off for some time on some of the beaches, however they come prepared with supplies to wait for the ebb tide and then lave once it is safe.
On these occasions the alarm can be called by well intentioned onlookers who are concerned after seeing people cut off and the RNLI will always respond to ensure everyone on the beach is safe.
Thankfully this weekend there were no casualties although it was a busy time for the combined agencies of RNLI, HM Coastguard and the RNLI lifeguards.
The RNLI will continue to provide safety education and would encourage people to take time to check tide tables (which are displayed by lifeguards on the beaches and available on local lifeboat station Facebook book pages and the RNLI website) and seek advice when spending a day on the beach.
Ends
Media Contacts:
Karen Cox Local Press Officer email
[email protected] tel. 07779848431
Paul Dunt RNLI Regional Media Officer for London and South East
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