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Islanders have been reminded to check tide times before walking on the coast after two people needed to be rescued from Elizabeth Castle yesterday evening... and then two more at Green Island immediately after.
While on exercise, RNLI Jersey received a report from Jersey Coastguard that two individuals were in danger at Elizabeth Castle.
After arriving and locating the people with the assistance of the Castle guardian, the pair were safely brought ashore after a quick assessment of their condition.
As this incident finished, the lifeboat was called to another rescue at Green Island.
The two people at Green Island were safely returned to shore by the Jersey Fire and Rescue Service.
In the last four weeks, 13 people have been rescued from Elizabeth Castle, Green Island and the south-east coast, according to the Coastguard. This year, there have already been eight incidents involving 19 people.
Last year, meanwhile, the Coastguard coordinated responses to 13 such incidents, during which 22 people were helped to shore.
The Fire Service's lifeboat has also been busy with rescues – over the last three days alone, it has assisted in rescuing three people who have been cut off by the tide while at Elizabeth Castle.
Coastguard and VTS Manager Dan Downey said: "Jersey has one of the largest tidal ranges in the world, more than 12 metres on spring tides. On the south-east coast the incoming tide moves extremely fast and can resemble a fast-flowing white water rapid.
"We were pleased to see just 13 people cut off by the tide last year rather than 23 in 2022, but the figures so far this year are worrying. We coordinate an excellent array of search and rescue assets who can get to the danger areas quickly, but we want people to take a little more care and prepare themselves before heading to the coastal areas."
SJFRS Station Commander, Craig Channing, said: "While we don't want to put people off making the most of the fantastic coastline Jersey has to offer, the incoming tidal speed, especially around the southeast coast during large tides, can catch unwary explorers out. This means you can get cut off by the tide extremely quickly.
"We encourage anyone heading out this weekend to plan their trip carefully, let someone know their plans and always take a means of contacting the Emergency Services."
Dan Downey added: "We all enjoy taking part in coastal activities, whether that be beachcombing, low water fishing or strolling along the sand. But it is important to respect the sea and to prepare thoroughly before heading to areas where the incoming tide moves so quickly. We recommend anyone heading to these areas should check the tide tables and tell someone where they are going."
Anyone venturing out to Elizabeth Castle is urged to check on the time the causeway closes for pedestrians online to avoid getting cut off by the incoming tide.
The walk across may seem short, but it is more than 1km long so plan for at least 15 minutes to get across.
RNLI Jersey urged anyone planning on going out for a walk to tell someone where they're going and take a mobile phone on the journey.
"If you see anyone in trouble, or get in trouble yourself, call 999 and ask for Jersey Coastguard," the RNLI said.
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