Newquay Coastguard Responds to Well-Intentioned Alert at Towan Headland

Photo Credit – Newquay Coastguard

On Saturday, 16th March 2024, the Newquay Coastguard Rescue Team, in coordination with the Newquay RNLI Lifeboats, was deployed to Towan Headland following concerns for surfers believed to be in distress far off shore.

The operation commenced at 17:09 hrs, triggered by the vigilance of a concerned citizen who reported the situation.

Upon arrival and subsequent assessment by the lifeboat crew, it was determined that the individuals originally thought to be surfers in peril were, in fact, fishing from a small craft. The crew confirmed that these individuals were not in any danger and did not require assistance.

This incident has been classified as a well-intentioned false alarm. The coastguard team emphasised the importance of such reports, acknowledging the good intentions behind the alert. They reinforced the message that the public should always err on the side of caution when it comes to coastal safety. The coastguard encourages anyone who perceives a person in difficulty along the coast to dial 999 and request the coastguard, ensuring safety remains a paramount concern.

The Newquay Coastguard Rescue Team and the Newquay RNLI Lifeboats continue to stand ready to respond to all reports of individuals in potential distress at sea, underscoring their commitment to public safety. They also remind everyone to stay safe and remain vigilant when enjoying coastal areas.