RNLI Easter safety warning in the North West following results of tidal study

The nationwide study has revealed the shocking statistic that up to 10 million people in the UK may have had some experience of being cut off by an incoming tide when visiting the coast. Figures show 15% of people in the Northwest reported to have experienced tidal cut off.

An incoming tide can quickly leave people stranded, often requiring the RNLI’s help. On bigger tides like we will see over the Easter period, places will be cut off by the tide quicker than normal and places usually unaffected by the tide may also be cut off.

The RNLI teamed up with Bangor University last year as part of a project to understand people’s knowledge of the tide. Researchers have been talking to people who have experienced tidal cut offs to explore some of the reasons why they get into trouble. The charity is calling on people to be extra careful if visiting the coast over the Easter weekend.

The survey also found:

· Over half (57%) of those who had experienced tidal cut off lived inland – away from the coast.

· A staggering 41% of people living in the North West were unaware that the tide typically comes in twice a day

· 42% of people in the North West were not aware that the amount the tide rises and falls is not the same every day in any given location

· 35% of people in the North West were not aware that the rise and fall of the tide is not of equal size in all parts of the country

Spring tides will build over the Easter weekend and peak on Saturday 9 April. The lifesaving charity is urging people to use a trusted online source such as magicseaweed.com or a tidal prediction app before setting off on a trip. Coastal visitors should be aware the water may change quickly and very differently to what may be expected.

RNLI statistics for the Wales and North West region show people getting cut off by the tide caused almost 10% of all lifeboat launches over the last decade – more than double the UK average.

The university commissioned a marine social scientist to unpick people’s awareness of tides, with a view to improving tidal knowledge through new public campaigns and education. With the support of an Oceanographer and a Professor of Linguistics, the University are committed to helping to ensure people enjoy our coastline safely, and the charity to ultimately save more lives.

Dr Liz Morris-Webb, Researcher and Marine Social Scientist at Bangor University said:

‘The results of our initial survey show just how much the public misunderstand the tide, but also how even those with experience and knowledge of the coast can easily get into trouble if underprepared or distracted. Many respondents who reported being cut off by the tide wanted to send a message to others, especially how quickly the tide can change and become very dangerous. Interviews with those involved with RNLI rescues have described how the tide near a cliff ‘fills like a bath’; how on a sandflat, ‘the sea can come in faster than you can run’ and how the tide can be very different just around the corner.’

Chris Cousens, RNLI Water Safety Lead for Wales, the West and Isle of Man said the survey would help the RNLI shape it’s safety messaging to ensure it is having an effect. He said:

‘Our core message of always check the weather and tides is a complex one as we suspect there is confusion over where to access tidal information, and not knowing how to interpret the beach specific tidal information. It’s been extremely useful to work with experts at Bangor University and we look forward to the next step in this exciting collaboration.

‘We expect this weekend to be busy on the coast, but with higher than normal spring tides forecast this weekend, areas affected by tidal cut off may be cut off faster than normal, and other areas not normally known for tidal cut off may see incidents in the coming days. Anyone heading to the coast is reminded of the importance of checking the tide times and ensuring they have enough time to return if they decide to venture further along the beach.

‘It’s hard to imagine how walking can turn out to be such a dangerous activity, this is why it’s important to always check the tide times at the start of your day, keep an eye out for the incoming tide and leave enough time to return safely. It’s also vital to always carry a means of calling for help. If in doubt seek local advice.’

Ends

Notes to Editors

Drone footage showing Hilbre Island at various tidal states is available here: https://source.rnli.org.uk/share/E0E0E67A-0A73-4724-A45F42FF99B3C725/

Video footage of a family being cut off by the tide at West Kirby is available here:https://source.rnli.org.uk/share/8A99DFBD-CBA2-451D-93A3452ED04CB520/

Media Contacts

For further information, please contact Danielle Rush, RNLI Regional Media Manager on 07786 668829 / D[email protected]. Claire Elshaw, Regional Media Officer on [email protected] / 07468353082. Or Press Office on [email protected] / 01202 336789

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