Four girls were winched off the rocks at the iconic landmark on the Jurassic Coast, shortly before 6pm. The alarm had been raised by multiple members of the public calling 999 and asking for the Coastguard.
Lulworth and Kimmeridge Coastguard Rescue Teams, Weymouth RNLI lifeboat and the Coastguard helicopter from Lee-on-Solent were sent, alongside Southwest Ambulance Service and Dorset Police.
After the lifeboat and rescue teams were able to speak to the casualties and provide reassurance, the helicopter was called in due to the swell and conditions near shore. The helicopter was able to reach the four youngsters and bring them to safety. They have been handed into the care of rescue teams.
They were wearing wetsuits and, it is believed, were swimming when tidal conditions forced them on to rocks.
Allan Norman, Senior Coastal Operations Officer for HM Coastguard, said: “We received multiple 999 calls about youngsters screaming for help and there were clearly a lot of people concerned.
“We are grateful to all those that raised the alarm – we rushed to the scene and fairly quickly were able to speak to the casualties and provide some reassurance.
“They had on wetsuits and that was key; it’s really important to be properly prepared. They were a little embarrassed but they didn't need to be, we are here to help.
“As we go into the Easter weekend, we expect lots of visitors to our coasts, so check tide times, read our safety tips on our website and – if things do go wrong – call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”
Wearing a wetsuit is crucial if you are planning on going into the water at this time of year, as well as a mobile phone in a waterproof pouch.
Tides can catch anyone out – they never stop coming in or going out and it’s not always in a straight line either. They are often very fast moving, and they can sneak in behind you, alongside you and all around you, leaving you suddenly cut off and in danger.
Some parts of the country are especially prone to very fast-moving tides and in the UK and Ireland, we have some of the biggest tidal ranges in the world.
With many people likely to visit the coast this Easter weekend, HM Coastguard is ready to respond to ensure everyone will stay safe.
Image credit: Bjorn Emtage
