Fowey RNLI lifeboat crew rescue man cut-off by tide
At 6pm on Tuesday 5 May, Fowey RNLI volunteers were tasked by Falmouth Coastguard to rescue a single male casualty who was cut off by the rising tide at Polmear Island, south west of Charlestown Harbour.
The crew launched their D class at 6:12pm and made best speed to the location. They arrived on scene at 6:31pm. One of the crew went ashore and the casualty was transferred safely to the lifeboat. The crew then took the casualty to Charlestown Harbour where he was handed over to the St Austell Coastguard Rescue team. The lifeboat departed the scene at 6:50pm returning to base at 7:10. This was the second good example of coordination between Fowey RNLI and Coastguard in two days.
Tidal cut-off is a major cause of RNLI call outs and Fowey volunteers are regularly called out to Polmear Island during the summer season. RNLI advice is to always check the tide times and heights and keep a look out for incoming tide. Make sure you have enough time to return safely and if in doubt seek local advice. Always carry a means of calling for help with you and if you are in danger or see someone in danger call 999 and ask for the coastguard.
RNLI Media Contacts
For further information, please contact:
Cathy Baillie, Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer for RNLI South West, [email protected]
Emma Haines, RNLI Regional Communications Manager for South West England, 07786 668847, [email protected]
Amy Caldwell, RNLI Regional Communications Lead for South West England, 07920 818807, [email protected]
RNLI Press Office, 01202 336789, [email protected]
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The RNLI is the charity that 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 146,700 lives.
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