Child Blown Out to Sea on Inflatable Toy – Dramatic Rescue at Selsey
A young girl was swept out to sea on an inflatable toy off East Beach, Selsey, sparking a tense rescue mission on the afternoon of May 27. The Selsey Coastguard sprang into action at 2.33pm, quickly alerting the Selsey Inshore Lifeboat to join the search.
Quick-Thinking Fisherman and Lifeboat Crew Save Day
Thanks to the swift response of a local fisherman and the lifeboat team, both the girl and a man who had gone to help were rescued unharmed and brought safely back to shore. No medical treatment was needed, and safety advice was provided immediately.
Coastguard Warns: Inflatable Toys Are No Beach Fun at Sea
The Coastguard issued a stark warning about the dangers of using inflatable toys and airbeds in open water. Designed for calm swimming pools, these toys can easily be swept offshore by coastal winds.
They stressed vital safety tips to keep beachgoers safe:
- Always supervise children closely.
- Stay close to those using inflatables.
- Use inflatables only between red and yellow safety flags.
- Follow lifeguards’ instructions at all times.
- Avoid inflatables in big waves or rough conditions.
- Never use inflatables when the orange windsock is flying, signalling offshore winds.
In An Emergency, Dial 999 and Ask for the Coastguard
If you or someone else is in trouble at sea, on the beach, or along the coast, call 999 immediately and request the Coastguard. Quick action saves lives.
