Brush up on your local knowledge for your safety.
DUE TO THE EXTREMELY WET WEATHER, THERE HAS BEEN LOTS OF LAND MOVEMENT - PLEASE PLEASE BE CAREFUL AND STAY ON DESIGNATED PATHS AND FOLLOW ALL LOCAL SIGNAGE, IF UNSURE, DO NOT CONTINUE.
Several rescues in 2023 were mud-related due to people deviating from the paths.
We would urge anyone planning a visit to the coast to follow RNLI safety advice:
• Take care near cliffs - know your route and your limitations.
• Know and understand the Bembridge Ledge as this catches many people out.
• Have a plan - check the weather forecast and tide times.
• If you fall into the water unexpectedly, FLOAT TO LIVE. Fight your instinct to thrash around, lean back, extend your arms and legs, and Float.
• If individuals are choosing to go sailing or yachting it is important to ensure that equipment is properly checked and serviceable before going afloat.
• In any coastal emergency dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.
Local Knowledge
North-easterly facing, sea wall promenade, short sandy belt above the rocky pools and ledges to low water mark, A popular beach with private beach huts.
Emergency equipment
There is an Emergency Telephone and Defibrillator (AED) on the wall adjacent to the Lifeboat Shop entrance.
On the Beach
- The tide runs fast on both sides of the Lifeboat Pier on either side of high tide.
- Do watch out on low tides so that you are not cut off on the Ledges by the incoming tides.
- The Ledges can be slippery.
- Big drops from the promenade walls.
In the Water
- Offshore winds can blow you or an inflatable toy out to sea. Don’t use them in offshore winds!
- Keep clear of manmade structures like piers or groynes.
- Keep clear of other water users – swimmers and powerboats don’t mix.
Calling for help
If you or anyone you see are in trouble:
Call 999 and ask for the Coastguard. They will get help to you quickly.
The RNLI and HM Coastguard launch a beach safety campaign urging parents to protect their families and save lives at the coast.
Following key safety advice will keep people safe and help to reduce the demands placed on RNLI lifeboat crews, HM Coastguard and other emergency services.
Plan, have a plan and know that plan. Be safe.