Five rescued after being cut off by the tide in North Norfolk
Five people had to be rescued by a lifeboat crew after they were cut off by the tide at Blakeney harbour.
Wells RNLI inshore lifeboat was launched shortly after 9pm on Sunday (5 April) when the group called 999 after realising they were in trouble.
Three volunteer crew members faced challenging conditions with a strong westerly wind and tricky tides as they ventured to help.
The rescue mission involved guiding the group safely across a creek to higher ground, where Coastguard teams took over.
James Betteridge, Helm of the lifeboat, emphasised how quickly tide changes can create issues:
‘This incident highlights how quickly the tide can catch people out, particularly around creeks and harbour areas where water can rise and cut off escape routes very quickly.
"The group did the right thing by calling for help early, which meant we could get to them safely. We’d always encourage people to check tide times before heading out and to be aware of their surroundings, as even the most experienced and capable people can find themselves in difficulty.’
Safety advice from the RNLI
• Check tide times before you go
• Be aware of channels and creeks that can fill quickly and cut off your route
• Dress appropriately for the conditions even in mild weather, getting wet or exposed to wind can quickly lead to cold water shock and hypothermia
• If you’re in trouble, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard
• If you find yourself in the water unexpectedly, remember to Float to Live