Emergency services were called to the North Wales coast after a beachgoer became trapped in sinking sand as the tide rapidly closed in. By the time rescuers reached Rhyl beach in Denbighshire, the stricken woman was submerged up to her waist in water.
Rescue Operation
Rhyl's RNLI inshore lifeboat was dispatched to the scene at 9pm on Friday evening, 29 May. The woman was reported to be stranded in soft sand off Splash Point in the seaside resort.
An RNLI Rhyl spokesperson said: "The inshore lifeboat was launched within minutes. Once arrived on scene, the crew found the casualty to be trapped in the sand with the incoming tide now around their waist."
The lifeboat was brought alongside the casualty, and crew members put her in a lifejacket. A crewmember supported the casualty on their back, which popped their feet out of the sand. The casualty was recovered into the inshore lifeboat and brought back to the lifeboat station for a check-over and warm up. Rhyl Coastguard Rescue Team was also tasked to the incident.
Gratitude Expressed
The woman's mother from Rhyl was quick to express her gratitude to the RNLI crew on social media. Another well-wisher added: "Thank you so very much for saving a very special lady."
Safety Advice
Those caught in soft sand are urged to stay calm and avoid struggling, as this can make the situation considerably worse. Leaning back to spread your body weight while gently moving your legs can allow water to break the sand's suction and free you.
Separate Incident: Stranded Jetskiers
Meanwhile, RNLI Holyhead answered its fourth call-out of the half-term holiday when two jetskiers got stranded on sandbanks close to Traeth Penrhos beach. Early reports suggested one jetskier could be hurt, but further details indicated they were actually marooned near the Stanley Embankment (Valley Cob). Making its way to Traeth Penrhos, RNLI Holyhead's inshore vessel was accompanied by local cliff rescue crews.
An RNLI spokesperson said: "On reaching the location, it was found that there were two jetskiers, and no injuries. The casualties had been stuck on sandbanks – however they had managed to refloat and were starting to head back to Llanfwrog (also known as Sandy Beach) where they had come from. Suitable safety advice was given, and the casualties then headed back to Llanfwrog, where they were being met by the Holyhead volunteer Coastguard team."
RNLI Holyhead Lifeboat Station urged water sports enthusiasts to always wear an appropriate lifejacket or buoyancy aid. They should also carry a means of raising the alarm. The station added: "We'd like to remind everyone to be aware of the tides and layout of our local waters – it can be very difficult to judge the depth of water in certain locations."
