Emergency services respond swiftly to a poisoning scare off the Vale of Glamorgan coast
Two people had to be rescued from a tidal island off the coast of Wales after reportedly ingesting a highly toxic plant while foraging.
The incident unfolded on Sully Island, just off the Vale of Glamorgan, on Saturday, 3 May. Barry Dock RNLI confirmed the details in a statement issued on Tuesday.
The alarm was raised when the pair, described as experienced foragers, began showing signs of poisoning after consuming what they believed to be hemlock – a notoriously poisonous plant known for its delicate white flowers and commonly found in damp habitats like riverbanks and ditches.
Barry Dock RNLI’s inshore lifeboat was deployed by HM Coastguard to the eastern shore of the island, where the casualties were quickly located.
“Inshore lifeboats were tasked to locate, assess and medevac two casualties on Sully Island reported to have potentially ingested hemlock,” the RNLI said. “The volunteer crew were advised the casualties, experienced foragers, were on the eastern beach and were located quickly.”
Upon arrival, the crew found the pair suffering from anxiety and exhibiting signs of distress. Lifejackets were fitted immediately, and both individuals were brought aboard the inshore lifeboat for urgent transport back to the mainland.
Once ashore, the casualties were handed over to Barry Coastguard Rescue Team, who identified elevated heart rates. Oxygen was administered from the lifeboat’s supply, and an RNLI crew member remained to assist as further care was given.
The officer in charge maintained communication with the ambulance service throughout, as the situation developed. With the tide dropping and the casualties in a stable condition, the lifeboat returned to station and was readied for further service, while the individuals were taken to A&E for treatment.
Thankfully, both have since made a full recovery.
Bill Kitchen, lifeboat operations manager at Barry Dock RNLI, praised the response and the decision to call for help promptly: “We’ve since been in touch and are very relieved to hear that both have made a full recovery.
“They absolutely made the right call in seeking help – in situations like this it’s crucial that medical attention is sought without delay. We’re very glad this had a positive outcome.”
Hemlock is one of the UK’s most dangerous wild plants, and even small amounts can be fatal if consumed. It serves as a stark warning to even the most seasoned foragers to exercise extreme caution when gathering wild edibles.
