RNLI issues 'check tide time' plea as pair rescued
14 minutes ago
Georgie Docker
North West
The RNLI has urged people to "check the tide times" after two people had to be rescued from the sea in Merseyside.
Wirral RNLI volunteers were called to reports of two people cut off by a "rapidly flooding tide" between the islands off West Kirby at 12:01 GMT on Saturday.
The pair had become cut off between Little Eye and Middle Eye and took refuge on a rock between the islands while the lifeboat crew made their way to them. Both were brought safely back to shore.
"Always check the tide times before setting off," Andy Brown, from West Kirby RNLI, said. "The water can rise and surround you much more quickly than you might expect."
Communication between HM Coastguard, the RNLI and the casualties meant the pair were able to be guided to higher ground and away from the rising water until the lifeboat arrived.
"This bought valuable time for the lifeboat crew to respond, locate the casualties and prevented the situation from becoming more serious, " Brown said.
The lifeboat charity said people should allow at least three hours before the next high tide to return to West Kirby.
Brown added: "This rescue highlights just how important it is to call 999 and ask for the Coastguard if you find yourself, or see somebody else, in difficulty at the coast."
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