Happisburgh: Inflatables Warning

Happisburgh lifeboat crews were called out on 16th August after reports of two inflatables drifting out to sea

The dangers of inflatables being used on beaches has been highlighted after lifeboat crews were called out in Happisburgh. The call out occurred after reports of two inflatables drifting out to sea at Waxham, Norfolk. 

Sea Palling and RNLI lifeboat crews also joined the search along the North Norfolk coast from Sea Palling to Horsey. Both inflatables were found with no one on board, with the lifeboats being stood down after all persons involved had been accounted for. 

Pagers sounded again two days later after reports of two people on board another inflatable drifting out to sea off the Bacton coast. The inflatable and its occupants made their own way ashore, with the lifeboats being stood down before arriving on scene. 

A third incident was reported later that day and Happisburgh's lifeboats were called to Sea Palling Reef 3, after reports of a person trapped on the reef. Again, the lifeboats were stood down before arriving on scene as those involved made their way to safety. 

Beach visitors have been given the following advice on staying safe near the coast when using inflatables; 

• Any inflatables should be tethered to the beach with a line
• Parents should monitor children
• Call the Coastguard if an inflatable does drift out to sea, even if no one is onboard; an empty inflatable can result in a full-scale search and rescue operation