Coastguard Responds Swiftly to Swimmers Resting on Rock in Charlestown

On the morning of 27th July 2024, at precisely 10:26 hrs, the St Austell Coastguard team was dispatched to Charlestown following reports of a person stranded on a rock, cut off by the rising tide. As the team mobilised, the Officer in Charge (OIC) instructed several members to don dry suits, preparing to act as rescue swimmers.

Additional Concerns

Upon arrival at the RV point, a second individual was spotted in the water, prompting further concern. To assist in the potential rescue operation, the lifeboat from Fowey RNLI was also summoned.

A Fortunate Outcome

As the rescue team reached the scene, they established verbal contact with the person on the rock. Demonstrating calmness and capability, the individual swam back to shore unaided and reassured the team that they were not in distress. The swimmers, donned in wetsuits, were highly competent and fully aware of their surroundings. They were merely resting and not cut off by the tide as initially feared.

Public Vigilance Appreciated

Despite the unneeded rescue, the Coastguard praised the public for their vigilance. The timely call for assistance was the correct action, ensuring that help was on the way as soon as a potential danger was perceived.

In an official statement, the St Austell Coastguard expressed gratitude for the public’s patience during the incident. They reiterated the importance of calling 999 and asking for the coastguard in any coastal emergency.

The swift response by both the St Austell Coastguard and the Fowey RNLI lifeboat highlights the readiness and dedication of rescue services in protecting lives along the coast.