Date: 28th December, 2018
Firefighters are encouraging those out and about this winter to take extra care and not to walk on unstable ground, after a family had to rescued yesterday at Chewton Bunny near Highcliffe.
Firefighters were called at 3.05pm yesterday afternoon (27th December) to reports of a family stuck in mud. Two crews from Christchurch and the technical rescue team from Poole fire station attended the incident, along with colleagues from HM Coastguard. Firefighters and Coastguard personnel recused the family, including a child, using inflatable walkways, mud lances and by digging them out.
Station Manager Steve Broad, who attended the incident said: “This family had a lucky escape after their dog had become trapped in mud. As the weather turned colder and the light was fading yesterday afternoon, they became trapped in mud in quite an exposed area near the sea. During the festive period, it is great to get outdoors and spend time with loved ones, but I would urge people to consider the terrain and the weather conditions. Mud can turn from a bit of fun into something more dangerous very quickly and if you become trapped the cold can set in very quickly. The best way to avoid becoming trapped is to stick to footpaths and solid ground if you’re out walking and keep your dog on a lead near mud and ice.”
The stop message for the incident at Chewton Bunny was received at 4.24pm, when the family were all rescued.
If you should become stuck in mud, Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service has the following advice:
- Stay Calm
- Lie down, spread your arms and legs wide apart and shout for help
- Get someone to call 999
- Do not stand upright or attempt any movement as this makes you sink even more quickly
- If you see someone stuck in the mud, always go for help – do not go into the mud yourself
ENDS