A significant safety warning has been issued in response to a series of severe incidents occurring along various sections of the UK shoreline. The Tynemouth Volunteer Life Brigade (TVLB) is advising the public to approach with utmost caution in the upcoming days as substantial waves are expected to impact the coast.
The TVLB has raised concerns about potent rip currents that are likely to present a notable threat across multiple beaches in North Tyneside. Consequently, the charity has issued an urgent water safety notification. Notably, there have been several incidents this year where individuals were at risk of drowning after being caught in rip currents. Tragically, a non-swimmer lost their life at Longsands beach due to being swept out to sea.
In a social media announcement, a spokesperson for the charity emphasized the importance of understanding the prevailing conditions and refraining from entering the water if unsure or uncomfortable. The TVLB has highlighted that on December 29, the wave period is anticipated to peak at around 13 seconds in the morning, underscoring the need for a thorough assessment before engaging in water activities, especially for sea dippers and swimmers.
For those caught in a rip current, the advice is to try swimming parallel to the shore to escape. If this proves challenging, individuals are urged to ‘float to live’ and call for help. To address water safety concerns, the TVLB will be conducting a drop-in water safety clinic on Saturday, January 3, at King Edwards Bay from sunrise. Members of the public are encouraged to attend and seek guidance. In case of witnessing someone struggling in the water, it is crucial to avoid direct rescue attempts and instead call 999 to request assistance from the Coastguard.