Two rescues within 30 minutes highlight risks posed by big tides and strong winds

Wednesday 21 August 2024

Children stuck on K2 and a group of swimmers trapped by the waves at Vazon have sparked warnings about the dangers of being in the sea in current conditions.

Both incidents last night, which happened within half an hour of each other, led to police needing to help with the rescue.

Emergency services and outdoor activity groups have all echoed warnings about the dangers posed at the moment.

High spring tides are combining with strong winds to lead to particularly tricky conditions on the west coast, where K2 is a favourite spot for children to jump into the sea.

“A group of officers attended Grandes Rocques at high tide last night following reports of a group of children trapped on K2 rocks,” a police spokesperson said.

“Officers waded out to assist them. The children managed to climb off the rocks, and the officers helped them back across and on to the mainland. 

“Officers also responded to reports of three swimmers in distress at Vazon. The waves were trapping them against the sea wall. Officers used a throw line to help them climb to safety.

“Guernsey Police would urge people to be sensible when going sea swimming, and avoid doing so in dangerous conditions. If a person needs to be rescued it puts emergency responders at risk too.”

The lifeboat was also called out both times.

Guernsey Coastguard said: “Due to the current spring tides and strong westerly winds, there is an increased risk of swimming in the bays or ‘Tomb stoning’ off of rocks on the west coast of Guernsey.

"The emergency services and the RNLI were called to two incidents this evening, within half an hour of each other. Fortunately both incidents had positive outcomes but it could have been very different.

"Parents, please ensure that your children are made fully aware of these dangers and advise against these activities especially over the high waters."

Hold Fast Water Skills Academy, part of the Guernsey Sports Commission, took to social media to amplify the warnings.

“From today (rescues already happened) until Sunday we have extremely high spring tides all of which fall in the early evening,” it posted.

“Please stay away from the water, during this time. Please do not go out onto the rocks. Please don’t be tempted. Please do not let kids anywhere near the water.

"The [States] is not going to help the community, so the community has to look after itself. Spread the word, save a life.”

Pictured (top): Vazon at high tide. Credit: Guernsey Coastguard.