A large-scale sea rescue operation at Blackpool’s Central Pier on January 13 ended in embarrassment after it was discovered to be a fake emergency created for social media attention. The hoax prompted a significant response from emergency services but concluded with a teenager being arrested and a strong warning issued by authorities.
At 2:30 AM, emergency services were alerted to reports of a person in the water near Central Pier. This false alarm mobilised:
- 12 HM Coastguard volunteers
- Two RNLI lifeboats launched into rough seas
- The National Police Air Service (NPAS) and Coastguard Rescue 936 helicopter
- Blackpool Police, Fire Brigade, and paramedics rushing to the scene
After a challenging 90-minute search in difficult conditions, no victim was found. Authorities quickly determined the incident was staged purely to gain online popularity.
The situation escalated when the rescue helicopter crew were targeted by a laser pen from the ground, temporarily blinding them. This dangerous act seriously threatened air safety and is not the first such incident reported in Blackpool.
A Coastguard spokesperson said, “Laser pens cause a significant risk to our air crew and seriously hamper their efforts to locate people in difficulty and save lives. It is incredibly irresponsible to target aircraft with such devices.”
Blackpool Police arrested a 19-year-old man on suspicion of causing a public nuisance. He remains in custody pending further investigation. Under the Laser Misuse (Vehicles) Act 2018, aiming lasers at aircraft can result in unlimited fines and up to five years in prison.
The Coastguard emphasises the importance of reporting genuine emergencies by calling 999. False alarms waste vital resources and endanger lives. In the event of a coastal emergency, the public is urged to call 999 and ask for the Coastguard rather than creating hoaxes.
Originally published by UKNIP.
