15-Month-Old Baby and Two Adults Rescued from Treacherous Rocks in Cornwall
A tense drama unfolded on Sunday afternoon as a 15-month-old baby and two adults were rescued from dangerous rocks near Bedruthan Steps in Cornwall. The trio found themselves trapped by a swiftly rising tide, prompting a swift Coastguard and RNLI response.
Family Trapped by Incoming Tide Near Bedruthan Steps
Just after 1.10pm on June 10, HM Coastguard received a 999 call from a family caught by the fast-approaching tide. Rescue teams from Newquay and Mawgan Porth were dispatched immediately, along with Newquay Lifeboats and the Coastguard’s search and rescue helicopter.
Before help arrived, the baby had managed to scramble out of the water and onto the rocks, but danger was far from over. The RNLI crew bravely swam out to reach the family, treating minor cuts and scrapes caused by the rough rocks.
Daring Winch Rescue of Baby and Parents
In a heart-stopping operation, the Newquay helicopter winched the mother to safety first. Then the father and baby were airlifted in a specially designed child rescue valise — a carry cot adapted for helicopter rescues. Remarkably, no ambulance was needed as all were safe and well following the ordeal.
“This was a close call,” said Piers Stanbury, Duty Controller for HM Coastguard. “The family did exactly the right thing by calling 999 and asking for the Coastguard. They resisted the urge to self-rescue, which can be deadly when caught by Cornwall’s fast-moving tides.”
Coastguard Urges Caution on UK’s Treacherous Coasts
Stanbury warned that Cornwall’s spectacular coastline is beautiful but perilous. Swift tides can trap even experienced walkers. He urged holidaymakers to follow basic safety tips to avoid dangerous situations:
- Wear sturdy shoes or boots for coastal walks.
- Check weather and tide forecasts before setting out.
- Carry a fully charged mobile phone and inform someone of your plans and return time.
- Avoid climbing cliffs or loose rocks unless properly trained and equipped.
- Never try to self-rescue or rescue others in dangerous conditions — leave it to trained Coastguards.
HM Coastguard’s key message: “Keep safe, but if you see anyone in trouble or get yourself into difficulty, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”
