Llandudno Inshore Lifeboat responds to two incidents at West Shore
Holyhead Coastguard tasked the Llandudno Lifeboat at 2.32 pm on Saturday in response to an emergency call requesting an immediate launch. This was following reports that two people were in danger of being marooned on the sandbanks off Llandudno’s west shore by the incoming tide.
Llandudno’s RNLI inshore lifeboat Dr. Barbara Saunderson with her volunteer crew launched at 2.43pm when they were diverted to another potential incident caused by reports of an inflatable being swept out to sea in the direction of Puffin Island. Making swift progress, the crew were able to recover an unmanned black inflatable dinghy before diverting back along the shore to aid two casualties. They were seen to be struggling to return to shore from the rapidly disappearing sandbanks. Due to the depth of water and the strong tides, the inshore lifeboat was required to pick up the casualties before safely returning them to the beach.
The ILB Helm Andy Jones described how the rapidly incoming tide had left the casualties in increasingly deep water and without intervention could have become a potentially life-threatening situation. ‘As it was, we were able to get them back to the shore without harm’.
Deputy Launch Authority Dan Jones MBE explained ’this was a good operation with a good outcome, we were able to successfully carry out our rescue while also safely adhering to all the procedures and precautions we have put in place during the Covid 19 situation’.
Chris Cousens, Water Safety Lead for the RNLI in Wales said: “A high proportion of calls for the RNLI in Wales are to those who have been to people cut off by the tide, including during the lockdown period. Some parts of Wales have amongst the highest tidal range in Europe, and a beach that was clear yesterday at 2pm might be completely covered in sea at the same time today. Chris Cousens said: “If you are heading out for a coastal walk, make sure it is safe before you go. Always check the tide times and conditions before you set off and while out, be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on the tide direction. Ask for local advice and look out for safety signs. Always carry a means of calling for help and know to call 999 and ask for the Coastguard if you or someone else is at risk.”
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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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