Kids ignore warning messages from the RNLI, Hm Coastguard and the Local Lifeguards and continue to tombstone off the groynes in Brighton this weekend. Brighton Lifeboat RNLI were called out only a few days ago to two people in trouble jumping from the Pier. Brighton
RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager Roger Cohen MBE said the pair had a lucky escape as there was a low tide at the time.
The charity is taking this opportunity to remind people that Tombstoning is particularly dangerous as water depth can be unpredictable and alter with the tides.
The water may be shallower than the jumpers think and there are often hidden objects on the seabed.
Other dangers include the shock of cold water and unanticipated currents. Roger said: ‘Jumping from piers and groynes, known as tombstoning, can be incredibly dangerous at any state of the tide for a number of reasons such as submerged rocks and strong currents.
‘We realise that it’s tempting to jump from height into the water, especially with such great weather but submerged items may not be visible and could cause serious injury if you hit them. ‘The shock of cold water may also make it difficult to swim and in some places strong currents might sweep you away.’
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