Whitby Coastguard assists injured boy after rock fall at Saltwick Bay
It happened yesterday
Whitby Coastguard and partner agencies have successfully rescued a boy, who was injured in a rock fall at Saltwick Bay yesterday.
Initial reports led HM Coastguard Rescue Teams from Whitby and Ravenscar to the scene, where Whitby Coastguard Rescue Officers conducted an assessment and provided casualty care.
A member of the public swiftly aided the young man, who was with his family, by applying a bandage to an upper leg injury and using his first aid kit to keep the casualty warm.
Paramedics arrived shortly after, to continue the assessment and offer pain relief.
Due to the complex terrain and severity of the injury, Coastguard teams opted for a safe sea extraction over a stretcher or rope carry, which could have caused further distress.
Assistance was requested from the RNLI and Whitby’s inshore lifeboat, already nearby, facilitated the rescue, transporting him to the boathouse where waiting ambulance crews continued treatment.
During the operation, a second rock fall occurred, prompting Coastguard teams to move several families from the cliff base to safety.
Authorities are urging caution along cliff areas, as rock falls can occur suddenly.
Slippery cliffs often appear stable, but can become unstable after wet weather, dry spells, frost, or erosion.
Safety tips include avoiding proximity to cliff bases, not climbing unstable rock faces, staying back from cliff edges, and supervising children and surroundings.
A member of the public was praised for his quick actions, along with the multi-agency response involving the Coastguard, RNLI, and ambulance services.
The incident showcased effective multi-agency cooperation, bringing together different teams and expertise to ensure the safest outcome.
For assistance at the coast, call 999 or 112 and request the Coastguard.
The Whitby Coastguard Rescue Team remains on call 24/7 for the community.