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RNLI LIFEBOAT LAUNCHES TO CLIFF JUMPERS

Lifeboats News Release

Llandudno RNLI inshore lifeboat and Llandudno Coastguards were called out at 1640 today to investigate a report that a large number of young people were jumping into the sea from the Pigeons Cave area of the Great Orme headland.

Llandudno's inshore lifeboat launches to the incident.

RNLI/Luke Heritage

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On arrival at the scene the Coastguards spoke to the youths, pointing out the dangers involved in what they were doing, and ensuring they knew how to summon help in the event of an accident. At the same time the lifeboat took up position a little way off the cliffs to act as safety cover, in case one or more of the group should come to grief.

Despite the advice they were given a number of the youths chose to carry on jumping, so after again ensuring they could call for help if needed the Coastguards were stood down, as was the lifeboat crew at 1725 hrs.

An RNLI spokesman said later "Jumping into the sea from height, or 'tombstoning' is extremely dangerous.
The water may be shallower than it looks. Submerged rocks may not be visible - these can cause serious injury or paralysis. The shock of cold water can make it difficult to swim, and a strong tidal flow can easily sweep a person away."

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI charity 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 146,000 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.

About the authors

Alan Sharp
Lifeboat Press Officer, Llandudno Lifeboat Station
Luke Heritage
Lifeboat Press Officer, Llandudno Lifeboat Station

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