Girl Pulled Unconscious From The Solent

26 July 2013, 17:57 | Updated: 30 March 2016, 13:50

A 13-year-old girl has been pulled unconscious from the sea near Southampton.

Solent Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre received a 999 call from a member of the public at 12.17pm on Friday 26 July, reporting that two girls were shouting for help in the sea off Lepe Beach near Calshot, Hampshire and four people had swum out to help.

Calshot RNLI lifeboat and Southampton Coastguard Rescue Team attended and the Coastguard Rescue Helicopter from Lee on Solent was sent to the scene. The two girls were helped back to shore.

An unconscious 13 year old girl was taken by the coastguard rescue helicopter to Southampton General Hospital. A second girl was transferred by the air ambulance and the four other people involved were treated on scene and did not go to hospital.

Solent Coastguard Watch Officer Garry Hall said:

"We want people to have fun and enjoy our coast but to do this we all need to respect the power of the sea and recognise that it’s not like swimming in a pool. Powerful tides can pull you away from shore and mean that you are quickly out of your depth.

"HM Coastguard recommends that, where possible, you swim between the flags on a beach with lifeguards. If you see anyone in danger or difficulties at the coast or in the sea, don’t hesitate to call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”