Beware fast-rising ‘spring tides’ this week

Strong tidal coefficients are expected on France’s Channel coast all this week until Saturday morning, bringing dangerously fast-rising tides for those on the shoreline.

Spring tides (called les grandes marées, although they have nothing to do with spring) are a natural phenomemon that increase the tidal range, cause stronger currents and make the coastline more dangerous. Sometimes it takes just a few minutes for those standing on the beach to become isolated and stranded by the rising tide.

So while the spring tide brings an opportunity to head out onto the sand for a romantic stroll or to enjoy a spot of 'hand fishing' from the shore, the Prefecture Maritime (la Prémar) has issued the following safety recommendations:

– Consult the weather, tidal coefficients and schedules before departing and ask someone to explain it to you if necessary

– Do not go out alone, and inform relatives of your intentions beforehand

– Have a means of communication to alert rescue services

– Keep a visual reference point on the coastline (a rising tide can significantly change the perception of the environment)

– Be wary of mist and fog

If you are a victim or witness to an offshore event, contact the Regional and Operational Surveillance and Rescue Centre by dialling 196.

The maritime prefect also released a reminder: “that it is the responsibility of everyone to follow these recommendations and not put themselves in danger. In the North Sea Channel, most cases of tidal isolation are the result of negligence, ignorance or recklessness on the part of users.”

In May 2017, a group of tourists was stranded on a beach at Etretat (Seine-Maritime) and needed to be rescued by boat at 21.00 after alerting the fire brigade.