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A man died after getting into trouble in the sea off the coast of Plymouth.
Around 1.35 pm on Sunday (February 28) a major search and rescue operation was launched, in which two RNLI lifeboats were launched, as well as the Ministry of Defense police boat to search for a swimmer in near the Tinside pool.
The Plymouth Coast Guard team and paramedics were also present to assist with the incident. The swimmer was rescued from the water, but was later pronounced dead.
A spokesman for Devon and Cornwall Police said: “Derriford Hospital contacted police around 3.05pm on Sunday 28 February with a report that a man, who had been recovered from the sea at Plymouth Hoe by the Ministry of Defense and the RNLI, had been declared deceased.
The deceased, a 41-year-old man, was later identified and his family members informed.
“Currently, the death is not being treated as suspicious and a file is being prepared for the coroner.”
The Plymouth Coast Guard confirmed that 12 rescue officers were dispatched to the scene at Plymouth Hoe and urged anyone getting into trouble at sea or on shore to dial 999 and ask for the Coast Guard.
An RNLI spokesperson said: “Plymouth RNLI volunteers drop the coastal lifeboat (Annabel E Jones) and all-weather lifeboat (Sybil Mullen Glover) at reports of a missing swimmer in the vicinity of Tinside Pool on Plymouth Hoe.
“Thank you to the Ministry of Defense police boat crew, the Southwest Ambulance Service and the Plymouth Coast Guard for their assistance today (Sunday).”
Open Water Swimming: RNLI Safety Tips
Going for a swim in cold, open water can be exhilarating, but it’s not without risk. So, if it’s your first time swimming in open water or diving in cold water, it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional to discuss the risks of cold water immersion before you go.
Always arrange to go with a friend. Swimming in open water is so much more fun with another person, and you can take care of each other. It is also good to tell someone on land where you are going and when you will return. They may call for help if you are late.
You can find more information at:
Safety tips and advice for swimming in open water – RNLI
RNLI volunteers remain on duty, ready to help others during this closure. However, they urge everyone to think carefully about using the sea for exercise or recreation in case they run into difficulties.
When volunteer crews are called into an incident, it puts additional pressure on them and other front-line emergency services, in addition to potentially exposing them to COVID-19. Be careful and follow the government’s instructions: stay home, protect our healthcare workers and save lives.
* Check the tide times every day
* Carry a fully charged phone
* If you are going to float, always wear a life jacket or other personal flotation device and take a means of calling for help
* Verify that your equipment is in good working order
* Be aware of conditions and your capabilities and enter the water only if it is safe to do so.
* In case of emergency call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard
* Additional safety tips at www.rnli.org/safety
More Plymouth Stories:
Heartfelt messages to 43 Plymouth people who have died
Plymouth food banks expose stark reality of blockade impact
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