RNLI signs warning of dangers of tides at Mumbles Head damaged by vandals
Two signs warning of the dangers of being cut off by the tide were vandalised last week.
The signs were installed near Mumbles Lighthouse earlier this year by the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) and Swansea Council with the permission of the Mumbles Pier owners.
As a result of their presence, there has been a reduction in the number of people getting stuck on the islands, and it is now feared that there will be an increase in call outs to the islands off Mumbles Head.
In the past decade, The Mumbles Lifeboat has been called out more than 100 times to people stuck on the islands, with several near-misses. This summer alone, three people have been rescued after being swept out to sea while attempting to swim ashore.
One person was only saved when he remembered watching an RNLI 'Float to Live' video online. He leant back, put his ears in the water, stretched out his arms and waited for help.
The tidal range in so large that the area is considered a megatidal environment and is the second highest in the world.
Kate Croall, Water Safety Advisor said: 'We are deeply concerned about the recent vandalism of the tidal cut-off water safety signs. These signs are crucial for ensuring public safety.
'Acts of vandalism not only compromise the safety of locals and visitors but also place additional strain on the emergency services. We urge the community to respect these vital warnings and to report any suspicious activity to authorities immediately.
'I would encourage everyone to check the tide times before heading in the water and always carry a means of calling for help. If you find yourself in difficulty remember Float to Live, then when you can - call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.'
If you have any information regarding this vandalism, you can call 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers quoting reference number: 2400296476.
RNLI Media contact For more information please contact The Mumbles Lifeboat Press Officer, Adam Gilbert [email protected] or 07717 793890. Alternatively, you can contact Claire Fitzpatrick-Smith, Regional Communications Manager [email protected] or 07977 728 315 or the RNLI Press Office at 01202 336789 or [email protected]
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