Second lifeboat launch in four days for Barry Dock RNLI to Sully Island

This was the second shout in four days for the volunteer lifeboat crew to be tasked to people cut off by the tide as they attempt to walk to Sully Island.

The two were about to wade across the flooded causeway to return from Sully Island to the mainland but were advised not to do so by a local resident and business owner who told them it was safer to stay where they were because the lifeboat was already on its way. The RNLI lifeboat recovered the two persons and placed them safely ashore at Sully.

In the current situation with people being asked to stay at home and follow government advice, especially regarding social distancing, this can put huge pressures on the RNLI volunteers.

An RNLI spokesperson said:

‘The RNLI’s priority is keeping people safe in the sea and around our coast as it always has been. At a time when emergency services are already stretched we ask everyone to follow government advice. The RNLI is asking everyone to carefully consider the need to go to visit the beach, the coast or go into the water in case they get into difficulty.

‘RNLI volunteers are regularly called to assist people who have been cut off by the tide at Sully Island, these callouts always increase during good weather. This is why it’s now more important than every to check the tide times – and the digital crossing sign near Sully Island - before walking on the coast. Please think long and hard before potentially putting volunteers at risk.’

If you do choose visit the coast the RNLI water safety advice is;

· Take care if walking near cliffs - know your route and your limitations

· Check the weather forecast and tide times

· If going afloat, carry a means for calling for help and always wear a lifejacket

· If you fall into the water unexpectedly FLOAT TO LIVE. Fight your instinct to thrash around, lean back, extend your arms and legs, and Float

· In any coastal emergency dial 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard

RNLI media contact

For more information contact Eleri Roberts, RNLI Regional Media Officer on 07771 941390 or email [email protected]. Alternatively contact the RNLI Press Office on 01202 336789.

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.