The British Coastguard sprang into action after receiving a report of a person-shaped object in the sea near Cove Cafe in Cleveleys, Lancashire. The concerned witness quickly alerted the authorities, believing they had spotted a person in distress. The sighting caused immediate concern, prompting a swift response from the local coastguard team.
Quick Response by HM Coastguard Fleetwood
A team from HM Coastguard Fleetwood was dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, the witness informed the team about the suspicious object in the water. It was described as person-shaped, but the Coastguard soon realized it wasn’t an actual person. The initial description led the team to prepare for a potential rescue, demonstrating their readiness to handle emergencies.
Dummy Used in Training Exercises
After reviewing a video provided by the informant, the rescue team identified the object as a dummy used in man overboard drills. These dummies are commonly employed by maritime organizations for training purposes. The Coastguard quickly recognized the familiar features of the training dummy, which is designed to simulate real-life rescue scenarios.
Rescuer Sent Into the Water
Despite recognizing the object as a dummy, the Coastguard decided to retrieve it. A rescuer was sent into the water to perform a tethered rescue, ensuring the dummy did not cause further alarm as it drifted along the shoreline. The decision to retrieve the dummy was made to prevent additional confusion or concern among onlookers and to maintain public safety.
The rescuer, equipped with the necessary gear, entered the water and successfully brought the dummy ashore. The operation was conducted swiftly and safely, showcasing the Coastguard’s commitment to thoroughness, even in situations involving non-human objects.
Appreciation for the Alert Witness
The HM Coastguard Fleetwood expressed gratitude to the witness for their vigilance. Many thanks to the first informant who did absolutely the right thing in calling for us, the Coastguard said. From a distance, this made for a very concerning sight in the water. The Coastguard emphasized the importance of reporting any suspicious sightings, as prompt action can make a critical difference in genuine emergencies.