Water warning as six cut off by estuary tide
GoogleRescue teams have warned about the dangers posed by open water after six young people were cut off by the incoming tide at an estuary.
The six were caught out at Duddon Estuary in Askam, Cumbria, on Sunday, according to Duddon Inshore Rescue.
Five managed to swim back against the tide but one "was told to go back on to the sandbank and wait for help" which was provided by a fishing boat, a spokesperson for the organisation said.
The area is known for its fast-moving tides and flat sands which can leave people suddenly cut off from the shore, coastguard teams said while also reminding swimmers to be aware of the danger of cold water shock.
The group rescued on Sunday were given a safety talk by Furness Coastguard staff who were also sent to the scene.
Meanwhile, Millom Coastguard Rescue Team said in a social media post that cold water shock may cause people to gasp involuntarily, followed by rapid breathing that can be very difficult to control.
"This can increase the risk of inhaling water and drowning," they said.
"Don't be fooled, just because it's sunny doesn't mean the water is warm."
The Millom team said it is safer for people to enter the water slowly, rather than jump in.
