Newquay RNLI tasked to save Six Children from Rising Tide

On Sunday, 2 June, Newquay RNLI volunteers were dispatched for the second tidal cut-off rescue of the week.

At 1.53pm, volunteers received a page to launch both of the charity’s inshore lifeboats. The mission was prompted by worried parents reporting their children missing to RNLI Lifeguards on Watergate Beach.

Rapid Response and Search Efforts

Lifeguards began an immediate search of the beach area and launched the Rescue Water Craft (RWC) to explore nearby coves. With the tide rapidly rising, the Lifeguard Service contacted the Coastguard, which in turn tasked the Lifeboat crew and the Newquay Coastguard Search & Rescue team to assist.

The missing children were soon located north of Zachary’s Rock. A lifeguard was positioned on-site to reassure the children and assist the D class crew through submerged rocks to begin the rescue operation. The charity’s Atlantic lifeboat stood by with additional crew if needed. However, the D class lifeboat successfully transported the children back to their relieved families on Watergate Beach in two groups of three.

Successful Recovery Despite Challenges

Despite calm sea conditions and good weather, the recovery operation was challenging due to hidden rocks and the incoming tide. The efficient teamwork between lifeguards and lifeboat crews ensured a smooth and successful rescue. All rescue assets returned to Newquay Lifeboat Station by 2.30pm.

Earlier Incident: Three Rescued Near Newquay Harbour

On Sunday, 26 May, at 5.50pm, Falmouth Coastguard requested a lifeboat launch following reports of three people cut off by the tide on rocks near Newquay Harbour. The RNLI’s D class lifeboat retrieved one male casualty and brought him back to the lifeboat station. Another casualty was assisted by a member of the public to safety via harbour steps, while the third was aided by a lifebuoy ring and a lifeguard, making it safely to the harbour via the south quay steps.

Tide Awareness: A Crucial Reminder

These incidents highlight the importance of tide awareness. Tide times and heights vary, often leaving people stranded. The UK and Ireland are known for having some of the world’s largest tidal ranges.

To avoid such situations:

• Check tide tables before heading out.
• Stay aware of surroundings and the tide’s direction.

The tide can change the depth of the water by as much as 10 metres throughout the day, turning a seemingly vast playground into a potential danger zone. In any coastal emergency, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.