Hoylake RNLI are urging people planning on heading to the coast during the hot weather to stay safe and understand the risks.
It comes after a busy evening for the Hoylake crew on Monday 11 July when their hovercraft was tasked at 7:31pm to a dog walker who was getting cut off by the incoming tide between Leasowe Lighthouse and Barber’s Folly at Meols.
The Hoylake RNLI hovercraft Hurley Spirit and her volunteer crew launched and soon arrived at the dog walker’s location, bringing her on board with her dog. Fortunately both the walker and the animal were safe and well, and were taken to safety at Dovepoint in Meols.
They were also called to Barber’s Folly following reports of two people in the water, but found they were swimming safely.
They then issued advice to two more people at the water’s edge, who were potentially at risk from the flooding tide.
Hoylake RNLI Coxswain Howie Owen said: “With temperatures set to soar this week, we’re expecting many people to head to the coast. But it’s so important to take care and respect the water. We’d encourage everyone to visit one of our lifeguarded beaches and to always check tides times, weather forecasts and local safety signage. In an emergency at the coast, always dial 999 and ask for the coastguard.
“These incidents show just some of the dangers around our coast to watch out for – from fast flooding tides to treacherous patches of mud. It may be tempting to cool off in the water too, but summer sea temperatures can be as low as 12°C – cold enough to cause cold water shock. If you get into trouble in the water, don’t panic and float to live – lean back and use your arms and legs to float until you can control your breathing, before making your next move.”
For more lifesaving beach safety tips from the RNLI visit RNLI.org/BeachSafety
