The RNLI has rescued 10 people who got caught in the water during a fast rising tide off the coast of West Kirby.
West Kirby Lifeboat was scrambled on Friday morning to reports of eight to 10 people in the water between Middle Eye and Little Eye.
Upon arrival at the scene, the crew found two individuals and a dog standing on rocks. With the water all around them and rising up, they had decided that they would need to swim for shore, until they saw the lifeboat. The two individuals had previously been attempting to return to shore, but one individual had slipped, injuring themselves, which slowed their progress.
The volunteer crew manoeuvred the lifeboat to the casualties, bringing both safely on board and returning them to shore. Both were transported to the station for a welfare check and warming up, and though shaken, fortunately both were able to head for home.
The lifeboat immediately relaunched to the remaining eight individuals stranded on Middle Eye, returning them in two groups of four until all were safely ashore and brought back to the station for warmth, a hot drink and a biscuit.
Andy Brown, West Kirby RNLI Launch Authority, said: “The member of the public did exactly the right thing by reporting this to the Coastguard. Had this situation been left any longer, it could have been much worse.
“The current spring tides are some of the highest of the month, with the largest volume of water flooding in at exceptionally fast speeds, situations can turn dangerous very quickly.
“These high spring tides will continue over the weekend and coupled with the expected high winds forecast for Sunday, we would advise individuals to be cautious. The Marine Lake walkway will flood over during the period of high tide and the water comes in very quickly. Large waves could also contain debris with the potential for serious injury. Please check the tide times before venturing out for an autumnal weekend walk.
“If walking to the islands, we would advise starting your journey back to shore three hours before the next high tide and always carry a means of contact with you.
“If you believe you, or anyone around you, is in danger, dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard. The RNLI crews are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If in doubt, get us out.”
Photo credits: West Kirby RNLI
