North Somerset Council has launched a new water safety campaign
The council has collaborated with emergency services to launch a water safety campaign, aimed at ensuring safe enjoyment for visitors to Weston-super-Mare’s seafront this summer.
Weston-super-Mare boasts the second-highest tidal range globally, resulting in a rapid inflow of tides. When the tide recedes, it exposes areas of soft sand and sinking mud where individuals can become easily trapped. This situation becomes perilous as the tide returns, potentially leading to life-threatening circumstances.
To ensure your safety, refrain from walking into the mud during low tide. In case you or anyone else becomes entrapped, promptly call 999 and request assistance from the Coastguard.
Watch the safety video for more information: www.n-somerset.gov.uk/seafrontsafety
The campaign also encourages people not to tombstone from Knightstone Island. Tombstoning – when someone jumps from a high spot into the water – is very dangerous. Just one jump can result in life-changing injuries or even death, as it’s very hard to tell how deep the water is or if there are rocks below the water.
To find out more, watch this safety video: www.n-somerset.gov.uk/weston-seafront
Councillor Mike Solomon, North Somerset Council’s Executive Member for Culture and Leisure, stated: “As we approach the summer season, an increasing number of people will be visiting our seafronts for recreation. It is imperative that everyone understands how to ensure their own safety and that of others so they can fully enjoy our beautiful coastline.
“Our dedicated seafront team has produced several excellent videos outlining ways to have fun by the water while remaining safe. I extend my gratitude to Avon Fire and Rescue Service for their participation; they conducted a dramatic rescue demonstration using their hovercraft ‘Firefly’ to retrieve a dummy from mud—a compelling illustration of how swiftly circumstances can become perilous when tidal conditions change. Furthermore, I would like to thank the RNLI and the Coastguard for their vital contributions to this campaign, as well as the private operators who captured remarkable drone footage.”
“In case you find yourself in distress—or observe someone else in need—immediately call 999 and request the Coastguard’s assistance. Our seafront rangers patrol Weston seafront daily in close collaboration with emergency services to maintain public safety.”
Russ Mitchell, Group Manager at Avon Fire and Rescue Service, said: “We want you to make good memories at the coast, and knowing how to keep yourself and others safe is a vital part of that. We’re pleased to be working alongside our other emergency services and partner agencies to help you have a safe and memorable summer.”]]
Tim Treloar, RNLI Education Manager, said: “Educating people about water safety is fundamental to saving lives at sea and a core part of the RNLI’s prevention work. As a charity we’re delighted to have been able to work with North Somerset Council and other emergency services to create these films which will educate people on how to stay safe and enjoy our wonderful coastline.”
Sam Wilson, HM Coastguard’s Coastal Operations Area Commander for North Cornwall, North Devon, Somerset and Gloucestershire, said: “Everyone needs to be careful while enjoying a day out at the coastline, because having a great time also means staying safe. Getting caught out by the tide or stuck in the mud can be extremely dangerous as well as very frightening. Checking the weather, tide times and observing the local safety signage will help to minimise the risks.
“We’re always ready to respond to incidents at any time of the day or night, but it’s just as important to be prepared in the first place. With the summer holidays fast approaching, safety campaigns are a timely reminder to encourage people to take some simple precautions and of course to remember that if anyone is in difficulty, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”
Images below show a view of Weston’s seafront from the shore of Knightstone Island; and an aerial view of the rocks surrounding Knightstone Island. Credit: Stuart Scorgie
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