Report of children in difficulties investigated by Margate RNLI

UK Coastguard received a 999 call around 6pm this evening (Friday 1 July) reporting possibly two children in a canoe appearing to be in difficulties near the rocks at Westbrook Bay, Margate. Margate’s D class inshore lifeboat was tasked to investigate along with Margate Coastguard Rescue Team.

The lifeboat was quickly on scene and located two females on paddle boards who were making slow progress in a fresh offshore breeze and ebbing tide, the first informant confirmed with the coastguard that they were the casualties first observed. As the paddle boarders were making their way back to shore the lifeboat escorted them until they reached the beach where they were met by members of the coastguard team who checked on their welfare and provided safety advice.

Lee Button, Deputy Launching Authority, Margate RNLI said: “There are key safety messages for paddle boarders: always wear a leash and stay with the board if you get into trouble; carry means of calling for help, a mobile phone in a waterproof bag with the SafeTrx app can be invaluable; chose a lifeguarded beach if possible; tell someone else where you are going and when you will return; check the weather forecast and tides and finally and most importantly always wear a personal flotation device.”

Notes to editors

· Margate lifeboat station has been operating since 1860. To learn more about the lifeboat station go to: https://rnli.org/find-my-nearest/lifeboat-stations/margate-lifeboat-station

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