Major Fleetwood Coastguard rescue as up to 20 teenagers struggle in rough seas and powerful currents
‘The last time we conducted such a rescue only a few weeks ago the outcome was much less positive with one life lost and another severely ill.’
Up to 20 teenagers were rescued from the sea by Fleetwood Coastguard last night after getting into difficulty in dangerous conditions.
Coastguard Rescue Officers spotted the group a significant distance from the seawall, struggling in the water, and immediately launched a rescue operation.
The sea was rough and while some managed to scramble back to shore, several were still clearly in difficulty.
One of the coastguard officcers used a specialist tethered snatch rescue technique to bring back two casualities before using a throw bag to bring another safely back to the steps.
Three teenagers were taken to hospital for checks after ingesting seawater and the coastguard officer was also assessed by paramedics as he entered the water with only minimal PPE necessary for the rescue.
A member of the coastguard team said: “With choppy waves breaking against the sea defences, this was a challenging rescue. It was clear the group had been caught out by the rough sea and strong tidal currents, making it far more dangerous than they had anticipated.
“What really stands out is that we were called to exactly the same location at almost the same time the day before, following concerns for teenagers in the sea.
“On that occasion, we found them in shallow, flat calm water.
“They were behaving sensibly, understood the local conditions and knew exactly what they needed to do to stay safe. What a difference a day makes.
“The sea can change incredibly quickly.
“Conditions that appear safe one day can become extremely hazardous the next, and it doesn't take much for someone to get into serious difficulty.
“Only a couple of weeks ago we delivered a water safety presentation to all year groups at Fleetwood High School, and we know several other local schools have also received similar visits from emergency services.
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“We sincerely hope those important safety messages are being listened to.
“We're pleased that everyone was brought safely ashore, and we hope those involved have gone home with a greater appreciation of just how unforgiving the sea can be.
“The last time we conducted such a rescue only a few weeks ago the outcome was much less positive with one life lost and another severely ill.
“If you're planning to enter the sea this summer, please respect the conditions, be aware of the tides and currents, and remember that the sea doesn't always give you a second chance.”
HMCG Lytham who were also out on patrol assisted in the rescue.