Coastguards issue safety advice after people get into difficulty on a jet ski in West Bay

West Bay Coastguard is issuing advice after two people got into difficulty with a jet ski in West Bay over the weekend.

On Saturday afternoon, an off-duty officer from West Bay Coastguard Rescue Team saw the emerging incident in West Bay and contacted the Solent Coastguard.

Two people on a jet ski near the end of West Pier became overwhelmed by the waves and strong winds, and the jet ski was washed onto the rocks.

They initially tried to recover it, but due to the high wind and strong waves, it became pinned to the rocks and they were placing themselves at increased risk by trying to recover it.

Solent Coastguard called the West Bay team and harbour master to attend just after 1.10pm.

The two people on the rocks were advised to abandon their attempt to recover the jet ski and get themselves to safety, which they did, although one had suffered multiple cuts to their arms and legs.

A spokesman for the West Bay Coastguard said: "Declining the attendance of an ambulance, the persons were met by the coastguard and harbour team.

"First aid was provided, details were taken and safety advice dispensed.

"Only one of the persons was wearing a wetsuit and neither were wearing floatation devices or had the ability to call for help.

"Recovery of the craft was left in the capable hands of the harbour team.

"When operating personal watercraft, the coastguard advises the following:

• If you're going to take a jet ski or personal watercraft onto the water then you should make sure you know how to operate these powerful machines by getting trained. You don't want to find yourself in the water after being thrown off. This is why we always recommend that you wear a buoyancy aid or impact vest and ensure you attach your kill cord to your personal buoyancy aid so that if you end up in the water, the engine will stop

• Take a hand-held VHF radio with you and attach it to yourself, so you can contact the coastguard if you get into difficulty. A personal locator beacon (PLB) may be useful for more remote locations, along with mini flares and a fully charged mobile phone in a plastic bag

• Joining a professional and reputable personal watercraft club is also a great way to take to the water safely, and always respect any local rules or bylaws that are in place.

"If you find yourself in difficulty or if you see something which gives you cause for concern, do not hesitate, dial 999 and ask for the coastguard."

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