West Kirby RNLI tasked to assist stranded swimmer
West Kirby RNLI was requested to launch at 10.04pm last night by HM Coastguard following reports of a group of swimmers in need of assistance at West Kirby Moorings.
The volunteer crew of West Kirby RNLI Lifeboat quickly assembled and launched to reach a group of four swimmers, who had found themselves in difficulty. A member of their group, who had been able to return to the beach at Cubbins Green, contacted HM Coastguard to seek assistance. The party of swimmers had been able to reach a boat moored nearby on West Kirby Moorings, where they awaited assistance from West Kirby RNLI lifeboat. Upon reaching the casualties, the volunteer crew carried out a medical assessment of the four individuals and then quickly returned them to shore to awaiting local HM Coastguard. None of the casualties required any medical assistance and were very grateful for the support that they had received.
Gary Price, West Kirby RNLI Deputy Launch Authority said: ‘An individual can quickly find themselves in trouble and they made the right decision by calling 999 and asking for the Coastguard. With the rising temperatures many people are taking to the water and open water swimming is an increasing popular sport but we ask that people check the weather and tides, choose the right spot, go with a buddy and have the right equipment. Remember that even if the water looks calm on the surface, there may still be strong undercurrents that could pull even the strongest swimmers under. The water may also feel relatively warm on the surface, but just a few feet below it will be icy cold even in hot weather and can very quickly induce shock, cause severe cramp and hypothermia. If in doubt, don’t go out. Make sure that you acclimatise to avoid cold water shock plus wear a brightly coloured swim hat and take a tow float. Always carry a means of calling for help and this could be a mobile in a waterproof pouch. If you do experience cold water shock then ‘float to live’ by lying on your back, extending your arms and legs until you can control your breathing and the shock passes. People should never hesitate to phone 999 and ask for the Coastguard if anyone is in danger near to or on the water. We are happy to help.’
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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