“It could easily be you” warn those who have been rescued by HM Coastguard
Coastguards across the UK are warning those
planning to go anywhere near the coast or beaches over the Easter period to be
on their guard.
Conditions at sea or on coastal land can change
very quickly and unexpectedly, making it unpredictable and dangerous.
The warning to be prepared is supported by Jenny
Winnard who found herself calling 999 after a friend was swept into the sea by
a rogue wave.
People are being reminded to also check COVID
guidance for the area they live in before making plans as well as taking care
if they’re going to the coast or beaches for day trips.
Jenny and husband Phil were on holiday in Cornwall
with friends Andy and Liz when events took a dramatic turn and Andy was left
battling to stay alive.
The group had enjoyed a cliff top walk and the men
found a spot on the rocks to settle down for fishing.
The sea was very calm but out of nowhere a rogue
wave took Andy off his feet and he was swept into the sea.
Andy initially tried to pull himself from the
water but the shock of the cold water and the swell pushing him against the
rocks made it impossible. Realisation hit that he needed to preserve his energy
and float to survive.
Jenny made the important 999 call to the
coastguard and Andy was winched to safety by the search and rescue helicopter.
Andy was taken to hospital with wife Liz by his
side. He suffered broken ribs and there was concern that his oxygen levels had
dropped but he was incredibly lucky and was discharged later that afternoon.
Jenny said: “You don’t think something like this
will ever happen to you, but you need to consider that it might and make sure
you are prepared for it.
“Think about what you are doing – the sea was calm
but the rocks that Andy positioned himself on were wet, a sign that the waves
had been crashing over them. Do you have safety equipment? – they should have
been wearing life jackets fishing off the rocks. Finally know who to call – I
froze when Phil asked me to call the coastguard and didn’t know what number to
dial. I now know it is 999.
“We were a family that spent a lot of time at the
coast but this incident has had a massive impact on us and left us feeling
traumatised.”
Director of HM Coastguard Claire Hughes said: “Never, ever think it
won’t happen to you. We’ve heard stories from so many people, some of whom know
their coastlines and tide times well, who’ve been out for walks or who are
strong swimmers and experts in their watersports who have found themselves
suddenly needing help because something has changed.
“Regardless of how well you know the coast, or how
experienced you are in your chosen sport, the sea can still catch you out, the
cliffs can prove treacherous and even a momentary lapse of concentration can
put you in difficulty.
“We will always respond to those in need but all we
ask is that you think twice about what you do and where you go.”
If you get into trouble at sea or on the coast call
999 and ask for the Coastguard and we will come to your aid. But coronavirus
hasn’t gone away and we all need to follow the rules.
Remember your choices might put people, including
yourself and frontline responders, at risk. Take extra care in these
extraordinary times.
If you
fall into cold water, follow the RNLI Float to Live advice here: https://www.respectthewater.com/
#BeCoastSafe #RespectTheWater #FloatToLive
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