Two men reported missing off the Devon coast after an incident between distressed swimmers was reported to the police.
It was Devon and Cornwall Police at 10.25 flanker that received the emergency call from Budleigh Salterton beach. Authorities were in action quickly after reports of concerns about swimmers in distress were made.
Rescue teams were sent immediately to the scene to assist the people in the water, whose quick response helped to mitigate further risk.
But several swimmers made it safely to shore. They were checked on the spot by paramedics, and some of them were taken to the hospital as a precautionary measure.
Simultaneously, search operations for the two missing men were also going on, with rescue teams closely coordinating about what to cover in the coastal area.
Police said they have spoken with the next of kin of one of the men who is missing, and are still trying to contact the family of the second man.
What’s more, the officers also informed one of the locals about the ongoing situation and thus made sure that one of the people close to the missing men is also informed.
Authorities advised beachgoers to be vigilant while around the water, and stressed the need for following safety warnings and the instructions of lifeguards.
The local community showed its concern and gave support to the affected families. Volunteers helped where they could to help with the rescue effort.
Emergency services also stressed the importance of reporting to them about swimmers in trouble and that prompt reporting of the incident can save lives, so a person should immediately report it.
In response, the Coast Guard and police organised search patterns along the coastline using boats and observation points to find the missing men expeditiously.
Finally, the authorities also praised the brave actions of first responders and civilians; in combination, their actions helped to stop any more casualties in this serious incident.
Police are still investigating the circumstances and will keep people updated as they are able to provide further information.
The police confirmed that a large number of emergency personnel responded quickly to the coastal incident. They urged the public to stay out of the water for safety reasons.
Meanwhile, the Maritime and Coastguard Agency deployed Exmouth and Beer Coastguard Rescue teams to assist. RNLI lifeboats from Exmouth and Torbay also joined the operation.
Additionally, coastguard search and rescue helicopters monitored the area from above. Police and ambulance crews worked alongside them to manage the situation efficiently.
Authorities repeatedly reminded the public not to enter the water along this dangerous stretch of coast. Safety remains their top priority.
Earlier on Christmas Day, police warned residents not to join the Exmouth Christmas swim while emergency teams attended the Budleigh Salterton incident.
In response, some local swim organisers postponed or cancelled Christmas and Boxing Day events. They acted after the government issued a yellow weather warning for high winds.
The RNLI emphasised that strong winds and cold water create serious risks for swimmers. They encouraged everyone to follow safety instructions closely.
Furthermore, police praised the quick coordination between coastguard teams, lifeboat crews, and emergency services. Their swift action prevented potential accidents.
Residents and visitors should stay alert and avoid coastal waters during ongoing emergency operations. Officials continue to monitor conditions carefully.
Finally, authorities urge people to enjoy festive events safely on land. They reminded everyone that public safety comes before any recreational activity.
‘Roughest’ sea
Tahsiens World journalist Phillip Stoneman has been to Budleigh Swim a number of times, and on each occasion, he looks forward to the vigorous spirit and enthusiasm that Budleigh brings.
This year, he immediately noticed that the sea was rougher than usual. He remarked, “As soon as we arrived, it was obvious that the waves required extra care from all who took up entry.” Clearly, swimmers needed careful preparation in order to enter the water.
Moreover, the large waving motions posed some challenges to some participants. Phillip added, “The waves swept some people clean off their feet, and other swimmers immediately came to their aid.” The community spirit shone as people were on hand to help each other in the turbulent water.
In addition, an RNLI boat was patrolling the water throughout the swim. Meanwhile, hundreds of spectators were either enjoying the beach or cheering on the swimmers from the beach. This amalgamation of safety and rock n’roll did devil an air of hype.
Overall, Phillip described Budleigh Swim as a “terrifyingly exciting” and challenging experience. Furthermore, he stressed how the occasion made the local and the visitor come together for a seaside celebration.
