West Kirby RNLI called to assist stranded walkers on Little Eye
West Kirby RNLI responded to a call to provide assistance to seven stranded walkers and a dog just prior to high water today.
West Kirby lifeboat crew were tasked by HM Coastguard at 12:36pm following a phone call by a concerned member of the public due to the sighting of a group of walkers on Little Eye. The fast flowing rising tide was quickly flooding prior to reaching a height of 8.56m at 12:54pm.
The volunteer crew quickly reached the group and spoke with all parties to ascertain if help was needed at this time. It was established that there was no medical emergency and that the individuals all had appropriate clothing and provisions to remain in situ whilst waiting for the tide to turn and go out. It is advised that anyone planning to stay on any of the islands over a high tide informs HM Coastguard of their intentions.
Speaking following the call out, Richard Diamond, West Kirby RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager said: ‘Getting cut off by the tide can be a frightening experience. We would remind visitors to the islands to check the tidal information before setting out and to take appropriate clothing. There is information concerning tide times and height on the noticeboard opposite to the ice-cream kiosk at the Dee Lane end of the Marine Lake and online. As warmer weather fast approaches, we would remind people it is important to respect the water and to guard against any hazardous situations.'
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
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