RNLI issues safety warning as temperature rises after rescue of three men cut off by tide at Titchwell

An RNLI hovercraft crew rescued three teenagers who were cut off by the tide - with officials since issuing a warning about temperature rises.

Volunteers rushed to Hunstanton lifeboat station after their pagers went off at 7pm on Sunday.

Hovercraft Hunstanton Flyer and her three-strong crew were on their way to the scene at Titchwell within 10 minutes of the alarm being raised by HM Coastguard.

RNLI hovercraft Hunstanton Flyer, which rescued three youths who were cut off by the tide. Picture credit: RNLI/Chris Bishop

The craft made good progress on a flooding tide and located the three young men, who were uninjured.

The crew transferred them to Brancaster, where they were handed over to coastguards.

The RNLI has also issued a safety warning to swimmers as the weather continues to get hotter.

Sam Hughes, water safety education manager at the RNLI, said: “We are expecting the coast to be extremely busy with this burst of warm weather.

“We want everyone to enjoy being around the water but we also want to make sure people stay safe and know what to do in an emergency.

“Always visit a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags. If you get into trouble in the water, Float to Live: tilt your head back with your ears submerged and try to relax and control your breathing.

“Use your hands to help you stay afloat and then, once you are through the initial shock, call for help or swim to safety if you can. In an emergency call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”

When entering the water, it is important to remember to acclimatise slowly to avoid cold water shock. Enter the water slowly and allow time for your body to get used to the cold.

If you do get in trouble in the water, remember the Float to Live advice:

\- Tilt your head back with ears submerged

\- Relax and try to control your breathing

\- Use your hands to help you stay afloat

\- It's okay if your legs sink, as we all float differently

A full list of RNLI lifeguarded beaches can be found here.

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