Sandown & Shanklin Independent Lifeboat has launched to save a number of individuals drifting out to sea on an inflatable off Shanklin this afternoon (Wednesday).
The volunteer lifeboat crew have made best speed to the area having launched at around 14:20.
The crew are now assisting the casualties, who have been located some distance off the beach.
Ventnor Coastguard Rescue Team are on scene at Shanklin Esplanade where the individuals – thought to be youngsters – are being taken ashore.
UPDATE @ 14:50 – The casualties are now safely back on dry land. As a result, the lifeboat has stood down and returned to station.
The trio have been given words of advice.
If you or someone else is in difficulty on the coast or at sea, or if you spot what you think may be unexploded ordnance, then dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard. Further safety information can be found at https://coastguardsafety.campaign.gov.uk/.
Get help faster by giving emergency services your exact location by using ///what3words.
what3words have divided the world into 3m squares and given each square a unique combination of three words, which means when you are in a remote area of the Isle of Wight you can get assistance much quicker without the need for local knowledge.
Who in their right mind would allow children on an inflatable in windy weather?
Unfortunately judging from recent paper reports quite a few. Mind you when you see some of the parents you can see the answer.
It seems as well as COVID-19, we have another virus that is making people act completely stupid.
Ever seen the film ‘Idiocracy’?
No, but I think I’m living it at the moment.
Can’t believe how many of these stories we’re seeing lately. Do people never learn? Are they completely unaware of how dangerous the sea can be? I wonder if they are visitors with no sea sense but surely anyone must realise the dangers. Thank goodness for our amazing coastguards and lifeboats or many of these reports would have very different outcomes.
Yes nearly every day I see the coastguard go screaming past our house on blues an twos going down Shanklin never seen them so busy