Fowey volunteer RNLI lifeboat crew rescue five people cut off by tide
On August 11 Fowey volunteer RNLI lifeboat crew launched their inshore D class at 4.25pm. Reports had been received from third parties that five people, including three children, had been cut off by the rising tide at Lantic Bay.
When the crew arrived at Lantic Bay they found the group on a small patch of sand to the west of the main beach. As the swell was breaking onto the shore the helm, Kai A’Lee decided to anchor and veer down towards the beach. Assisted by crew Luke Watts and Ross Jezard, one adult and two children were helped safely onboard the lifeboat and then landed back onto the main beach. The lifeboat crew then went back a second time to rescue the remaining adult and child and return them to the main beach.
Lantic Bay is a very popular spot for walkers and swimmers, but Fowey RNLI is urging people to be prepared. Volunteer Deputy Launch Authority, Richard Jeffery, who was on duty at the time and authorised the lifeboat launch said: ‘Tidal cut off is a major cause of RNLI call outs. People are often unaware that they are in potential danger and, as such, are not prepared. Key areas for getting cut off by the tide are causeways, sandbanks and headlands. We advise people to always check the tide times and heights and to keep a look out for incoming tide. Always carry a means of calling for help and tell someone else where you are going and when you’ll be back.’
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.