West Kirby RNLI respond to late night call to assist jet ski
West Kirby RNLI were called out to the mud flats off Thurstaston beach to assist two adults searching for a jet ski.
West Kirby RNLI was requested by HM Coastguard to launch at 1:30am having received a 999 call from two individuals who had returned to Thurstaston beach mud flats to retrieve their stranded jet ski. West Kirby RNLI volunteer crew quickly launched and reached the individuals who had become disoriented due to the darkness and unfamiliarity of the channels and mud flats. They had previously run aground during an ebbing tide and had decided to return on the incoming tide to float the jet ski and return it to shore. The casualties were assessed and returned to Sandy Lane slipway. West Kirby RNLI volunteer crew then returned to the area of the incident and were able to locate and secure the jet ski, returning it safely to shore.
Speaking following the call out, Gary Price, West Kirby RNLI Lifeboat Deputy Launch Authority said: ‘This incident could have had a more troubling outcome but for the casualties quick thinking, calling 999 for the Coastguard when they realised they were in danger and West Kirby RNLI lifeboat 'Seahorse' provided a quick response. Getting cut off by the tide can be a frightening experience and we would remind individuals to check the tidal information. If you see someone in trouble, dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.’
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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