The Tynemouth Volunteer Life Brigade (TVLB) has issued a critical safety alert for the UK coastline following a series of serious and near-fatal incidents.
Urgent Warning for Coastal Visitors
The volunteer rescue charity is urging the public to exercise extreme caution over the coming days. Forecasters are predicting large, powerful waves and significant rip currents that will create dangerous conditions along the shore, particularly across beaches in North Tyneside.
In a stark social media statement, a TVLB spokesperson revealed the sobering context behind the alert. "This year, we have had a number of serious incidents where people have nearly drowned due to being caught in a rip current and one very unfortunate drowning at Longsands beach where a non-swimmer got pulled out to sea," they said.
Specific Risks and Safety Advice
The brigade has highlighted Sunday, December 29, as a day of particular concern. Surf forecasters at Surfline predict a wave period of around 13 seconds during the morning, creating powerful conditions that demand careful assessment before entering the water.
The TVLB's essential safety advice for anyone caught in a rip current is clear:
- Try to swim parallel to the shoreline to escape the current's pull.
- If swimming out is impossible, remember to 'float to live' to conserve energy.
- Call out and wave for help immediately.
The charity strongly advises the public: "Please be aware of the conditions, and if you're not sure or you're not comfortable, please don't go in."
Community Response and Future Action
In response to the ongoing risk, the TVLB will host a drop-in water safety clinic on Saturday 3rd January at King Edwards Bay, starting at sunrise. Members of the public are encouraged to attend to discuss any water safety concerns with the experts.
The brigade also issued a crucial reminder for anyone witnessing a person in trouble in the water: do not attempt a rescue yourself. Instead, dial 999 immediately and ask for the Coastguard.
This urgent warning underscores the unpredictable and often deadly power of the sea, especially during winter, and calls for heightened vigilance from all coastal visitors.
