A dramatic rescue unfolded in Silverdale, Morecambe Bay, when emergency crews saved a man trapped in quicksand. The incident occurred on Saturday at approximately 11:30 AM, as the tide rapidly encroached upon the bay. When the Bay Search and Rescue team arrived, they initially observed only the man’s chest, head, one arm, and part of one leg visible above the quicksand.
Details of the Rescue Operation
The rescue team quickly discovered the casualty lying on his back in a soft gulley. Fortunately, the man was not submerged too deeply but was exhausted and suffering from hypothermia. To safely extricate him, the crew employed two Rescue Air Pathways. One was placed behind him to prevent further sinking, while the other was positioned in front for careful extraction.
- The rescue was completed within minutes.
- The man was transported onto the pathway for safety.
- He was transferred to an all-terrain vehicle to regain warmth.
- Foil blankets were used as he exhibited signs of hypothermia.
Close Call and Teamwork
As the team left the scene, the tide had already begun to fill the gulley, underscoring the perilous nature of the situation. The crew reflected on the event, noting it was a “surreal reminder” of how close the man was to a potentially tragic outcome. Following the rescue, he was taken to a local café and handed over to the North West Ambulance Service for further medical assessment.
The Bay Search and Rescue team emphasized that this operation showcased exceptional teamwork among various agencies. They expressed gratitude to all those involved, highlighting the coordination and skill necessary to ensure marine safety.
Increased Quicksand Risks
Earlier this year, the rescue team reported an alarming trend. They had identified more patches of quicksand than seen in the past 30 years. Quicksand typically forms in waterlogged sand, which is a common occurrence in estuaries during high tide.
This incident serves as a critical reminder of the hazards associated with quicksand, especially in coastal areas, and the vital importance of emergency readiness.
