The RNLI crew at Hoylake are urging visitors to Wirral’s coast to take extra care after two call-outs during the half term break to people cut off by high tides.
Hoylake RNLI hovercraft was called to the rescue in two incidents on Leasowe Beach earlier this week as high ‘spring’ tides saw fast-flooding water cutting walkers off from the shore.
On Wednesday 22 February, two dog walkers found themselves cut off during morning walk. The alarm was raised at 9.47am and the hovercraft Hurley Spirit launched to the casualties’ reported location between Barber’s Folly and Leasowe Lighthouse, along with coastguard rescue teams.
The two casualties and their dogs were found near the small boat moorings at Meols and flown ashore.
On Thursday 23 February, a dog walker and a family of five were reported at risk of getting cut off by the incoming tide on Leasowe Beach.
The hovercraft Hurley Spirit was launched but it emerged that all of the casualties had managed to make their own way ashore safely. The crew searched the shoreline to make sure nobody else was stranded.
Hoylake RNLI hovercraft commander Matt Pownall-Jones said: “We’ve seen some big “spring” tides on the Wirral coast this week, so our beaches will be covered by the high water much quicker than usual.
“It’s quite common for people out walking to find themselves cut off unexpectedly, so it’s lucky that the alarm was raised in good time on both occasions, otherwise the casualties may have found themselves in a much more dangerous situation.
“If you’re heading out across the beach, always check the weather forecast, tide times and local safety signage, keep an eye on your surroundings, and know your route to safety. Always carry a means of calling for help and if you get into difficulty, dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”
Photo credit: RNLI