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CloseAn important message for visitors to Wells-next-the-Sea
Thr 14 May 2020
As we approach the first weekend since changes to government advice on travel and exercise in the UK, RNLI Wells Lifeboat Station is issuing safety advice to those who might be planning to visit the north Norfolk coast.
Nobody would choose to put themselves at risk but sometimes, lack of awareness of local risks or of their own capabilities can lead visitors to a situation where they need help from the emergency services and others.
The RNLI’s aim is to maintain an effective lifesaving service throughout the Covid 19 pandemic but it must be acknowledged that any call on our services will cause our crew to take extra risks because they may not be able to maintain safe distancing while trying to save a life or offer assistance to a casualty.
We therefore want to take all possible steps to ensure that the public are aware of the risks to themselves and to others and are also aware of the ways to keep safe around our shores. As the “lockdown” is eased, many will be keen to drive to the coast to exercise more freely. This increased activity will bring an increase in the possibility of something unexpectedly going wrong.
Our message to anyone who may choose to come to the north Norfolk coast this weekend is:
- Please be vigilant and aware, take extra care to stay safe, not just for your own safety but also for the safety of our lifeboat crews
- Be aware that the tide will be coming in from lunchtime on Saturday and Sunday and there is a risk of being cut off by the tide if walking near the water’s edge
- Please seek local advice before walking anywhere you are not sure of
- High water times for Wells are at 3.20pm on Saturday and 4.20pm on Sunday
Some harbours will be open for leisure boating activity. Wells Harbour has issued 'Key Points to Harbour use' on their website www.wellsharbour.co.uk and will update this regularly; please read before making plans. If you are thinking of going afloat, please inform others of your intentions in advance, make sure that your boat is in good, safe working order and do not venture beyond the safe limits of your vessel’s capabilities and the experience of you and your crew – At all times be extra cautious.
In any coastal emergency dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.
The crews of the Wells lifeboats thank you for helping them to keep everyone safe.