With bad weather predicted, the advice is to stay away from the water during the storms, give waves a wide berth and be aware that unexpected big waves can easily catch people out.
The RNLI is advising that if you find yourself in the water unexpectedly, to relax and float on your back to catch your breath and try to grab hold of something to keep you afloat. The initial shock of being in cold water can cause you to gasp and panic but these initial effects pass in less than a minute, so don’t try to swim straight away. Keep calm and catch your breath, then call for help, or swim for safety if you’re able to.
If you see someone else in danger in the water, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard. If you have something that floats or that they can hold on to, throw it to them. Don’t go in the water yourself – too many people drown trying to save others.
Every year, around 190 people lose their lives around the coast of Britain and Ireland. Over half of those who die didn’t plan to enter the water, with slips, trips and falls being a major factor.
Gareth Morrison, Lifesaving Delivery Manager for the RNLI, says:
“The water can be unpredictable at the best of times, but it is particularly dangerous during bad weather. We are urging everyone to respect the water and to keep safe during the upcoming rough weather and would remind people not to underestimate the distance waves can travel up the beach or harbour wall. Although it can be tempting to get close, it isn’t worth risking your life to take photos or to dodge waves.
“If you plan on going out walking after the storm, be wary. Storms change our landscape through coastal erosion so pay attention to warning signs, and don’t leave designated paths to look over the edge of clifftops”.
Paul Gundersen, Chief Meteorologist for the Met Office, says:
“From today we will see a change in the weather affecting most of the UK with a spell of wet and windy conditions through to the middle of next week. Although different to what we have experienced over the past few weeks it is currently not expected to be any more than usual winter weather. The weather systems are still developing and the forecast could change so it’s best to keep up to date with the latest weather forecast and warnings.
“At this moment in time, we have not named any of the low pressure systems heading our way over the next few days”.
A yellow weather warning for strong wind is in place.
The Isle of Wight Council closed the access steps at Compton car park earlier today due to ongoing land movement.
