A woman and her four dogs were safely assisted off Robberg Beach in Plettenberg Bay after becoming trapped by rising waves during a walk on Friday.
According to the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI), the incident unfolded at around 12:02 when an off-duty rescue crew member, walking near the top of Robberg Beach and inspecting storm damage to the boardwalks, was alerted by a group of concerned women.
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Unable to escape
The women reported seeing a lady walking on the beach below with her dogs and appearing unable to escape as the incoming high tide began cutting off access points.
Stairways that would normally allow safe movement on and off the beach had reportedly been destroyed during recent storms.
The NSRI crewman investigated and found the woman attempting to climb steep dunes and vegetation lining the beach in an effort to get to safety, but her attempts appeared unsuccessful as conditions worsened.
Growing danger
Recognising the growing danger, he urgently activated NSRI Plettenberg Bay Station 14.
Rescue crews responded by collecting equipment from the station and dispatching a rescue vehicle, while additional members headed directly to the scene.
Upon arrival, rescuers reached the woman and her dogs on the beach as the advancing high tide threatened to trap them completely.
Collapsed stairway
Using an alternative route near the site of a collapsed wooden stairway – damaged in recent storms – NSRI crews carefully guided the woman and her four dogs up a steep pathway and safely off the beach.
Once above the shoreline and out of danger, no further medical or rescue assistance was required.
The NSRI praised the group of women who raised the alarm, saying their quick action played an important role in ensuring a safe outcome.
