Coastguard and the RNLI are urging people to take extra care around the island’s coastline after a series of recent incidents involving cold water shock, harbour risks and unsuitable inflatables.
Emergency teams say warmer weather has led to more callouts, including people drifting offshore on inflatables and entering harbour areas where strong currents, vessel movements and underwater hazards pose serious dangers.
The warning follows the near‑fatal experience of Port St Mary resident, who was rescued earlier this month after his inflatable kayak overturned off Gansey. He was not wearing a lifejacket and is unable to swim.
He said conditions changed rapidly and he was “petrified” as he struggled to stay afloat before being spotted and saved by the RNLI and Coastguard.
Sea Conditions
Harbours and Coastguard Operations Officer Andy Mulhern said cold water can incapacitate even strong swimmers within seconds, and cheap inflatables are often unsuitable for Manx sea conditions.
He also highlighted recent injuries caused by people jumping into shallow harbour water.
RNLI Water Safety Officer James Kellet reminded people to “float to live” if they unexpectedly enter the sea, and to call 999 and ask for the Coastguard if they see someone in difficulty.
Authorities are asking the public to respect the water, understand the risks and think carefully before entering the sea or using inflatables.
