RNLI Issues Tide Safety Warning Following Coastal Rescues

The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) has advised individuals to verify tide schedules after its volunteer teams conducted a rescue operation for two people who became isolated by the incoming tide. On Sunday, rescue crews from Staithes and Runswick Bay received an alert regarding two individuals in distress near Kettleness, situated to the east of Runswick Bay. The teams located the couple, who were signaling for help with their mobile phone’s light, and then swam to the shore to bring them back to the lifeboat individually. An RNLI spokesperson stated that despite being wet and cold, the rescued individuals were in good condition after being transported to the lifeboat station for warmth. On the same afternoon, volunteer lifeboat crews from Redcar RNLI, located further along the coast, also responded to similar reports of people isolated by the tide. Volunteer Helm Lee Jackson commented: “The casualties did exactly the right thing in ringing 999 and asking for the Coastguard when they realised that they were cut off.” An RNLI spokesperson emphasized the importance of prioritizing safety when visiting coastal areas. They advised: “Check tide tables and be aware of the tide’s direction to avoid getting cut off.” The spokesperson added: “As the tide comes in, moving up the beach might not be enough to stay safe. For example, if you’ve walked around a rocky outcrop, the rising water can quickly block your way back.”