Kayaker Rescued After Sinking Drama Off Littlehampton
A kayaker was plucked from the water after he started sinking off the coast of Littlehampton. Quick thinking and a 999 call to the coastguard set the rescue in motion.
Coastguard and Lifeboat Teams Race to the Rescue
HM Coastguard dispatched the Littlehampton Coastguard Rescue Team and RNLI Lifeboat Station straight away. The kayaker managed to call back with a better location, guiding rescuers right to him.
Both teams worked together to bring him safely ashore after a tense 45-minute ordeal.
Safety Gear Saved His Life
Darren Crisp from Littlehampton Coastguard Rescue Team said: “Not only did the kayaker have his phone in a waterproof pouch, he also had a full wetsuit on and was wearing a PFD too. It meant that for the 45 minutes he was in the water, he had buoyancy. He also did the right thing by staying with his kayak which also helped him.”
Top Tips for Safe Kayaking
- Always wear a Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
- Carry a waterproof phone or a device to contact the shore
- Wear the correct kit, including a wetsuit if needed
- If in trouble, dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard immediately
