Tombstoning teenagers ‘putting lives at risk’

YOUNG swimmers are putting their lives at risk by tombstoning off Portishead Pier, prompting a warning from the RNLI.

Groups of youngsters have been spotted tombstoning off the pier into the estuary and diving into the town’s marina.

Tombstoning is where a person jumps in a straight upright vertical posture from a high level.

RNLI bosses are now writing to schools across the town urging parents to warn their children of the dangers they are putting themselves in.

Lifeboat

operations

manager

Dave Slack said: “Tombstoning from Portishead Pier and jumping in the marina are activities which are extremely dangerous.

“The depth of water may hide unknown hazards under the surface which could lead to serious injury and drowning.

“The tide is very strong on our coast, particularly around the pier, and can soon take you in to the very deep and busy shipping channel.

“Swimming in the marina is prohibited, and we are urging parents to discourage their children from doing so. The deep sinking mud is another hazard on our coast locally, making it very difficult to free yourself. Having one of the highest tidal ranges in the world here in Portishead, the water can rise and fall up to 15 metres every six hours. The tide moves in and out very quickly.”

Mr Slack added that with the water still cold those jumping in the water could suffer shock – which could be fatal.

Mr Slack said: “I urge you all to inform your young people of the dangers on our coast and at the marina.”

Anyone who sees anyone in trouble near the coast should call 999 and ask for the coastguard.