Five paddleboarders rescued from mud in multi-agency response

Firefighters made use of new practices and equipment to rescue five paddleboarders stuck in mud at Calshot yesterday afternoon.

Crews from Hardley and Redbridge were supported by the HIWFRS water rescue team from Fareham when they were called shortly after two o’clock.

With HM Coastguard teams from Hillhead and Lymington providing back up safety, guidance and support, firefighters used mud waders and sleds to reach the stranded paddleboarders and bring them back to shore.

The paddleboarders were taken into the RNLI station for assessment by SCAS paramedics, but fortunately there were no injuries.

Getting stuck in the mud when out and about can happen to anyone, but there are steps you can take to avoid this:

• Staying safe around mud – Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Service, Official website of Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Service (hantsfire.gov.uk)
• On and around water – Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Service, Official website of Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Service (hantsfire.gov.uk)