A family, including two children and their two dogs, faced a perilous situation at Cramond Island, a popular beauty spot in Edinburgh, when they became cut off by the rising tide. The incident occurred on 26 May at approximately 12:42 PM, prompting a swift response from the Queensferry RNLI. Lifeboat crews battled strong winds and moderate seas to reach the stranded group, successfully rescuing them without any reported injuries.
The RNLI's social media post detailed the operation, emphasising the importance of safety while enjoying coastal areas. They reminded visitors to check tide times and carry means of communication for emergencies. Visitors were also encouraged to be vigilant and consult the local signage for safe crossing times, with additional advice to refrain from wading through rising waters and instead to call 999 for assistance if necessary.
This recent rescue underscores an alarming trend; nearly 60% of the Queensferry RNLI's callouts in 2023 have involved individuals stranded on Cramond Island. By mid-year, the RNLI reported responding to 27 incidents involving stranded visitors, a statistic that has prompted warnings about the dangers of misjudging tidal patterns.
Cramond Island has a long history of posing such risks. In January 2023, for instance, a group of four individuals required rescue after becoming stranded. Similarly, incidents earlier in the year, such as one involving a submerged man on the Cramond Causeway, highlight the potential dangers that visitors face. Locals and frequent visitors are often reminded of the unseen hazards lurking beneath what appears to be a safe crossing.
Jamie Forrester, the helm at Dunbar RNLI, reflected on another recent incident at Tyninghame Beach, where he noted that quick-thinking by a nearby surfer was critical in averting a tragedy as emergency services handled multiple rescues from dangerous rip currents. Such incidents have catalysed discussions about safety awareness at coastal areas, with emergency services calling for greater public education on the risks involved in coastal activities.
Continued outreach by the RNLI aims to make safety a priority for those venturing to Cramond Island and similar locales. By informing potential visitors about the importance of adhering to tide schedules and the capabilities of rescue services, the RNLI seeks to reduce the frequency of situations that lead to risky emergencies in the future.
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Source: Noah Wire Services