Rower rescued from mud after sending precise location using app

A trapped rower was rescued from mud after he used an app to alert authorities to his exact location.

The man had been desperate after becoming trapped 200 metres off the coast of Essex on Friday evening. He quickly remembered he had the What3words app installed on his phone and then used it to alert emergency teams to his position near Heybridge village.

The coastguard and firefighters were dispatched to his location at 6.44pm after receiving his three-word address. The rescue teams worked together to help free the man using drones and line rescue paths and he was eventually led to safety before 8pm.

Essex Fire Service wrote on X (formerly Twitter): "Firefighters worked with coastguard colleagues to rescue a man in a rowing boat stuck in the mud this evening. Using what3words helped us to reach the man quickly and we'd encourage the public to download the app, it’s free and it could help us locate you quickly."

Water incident manager Dave Bond said: “The man became stranded in the mud, about 200m from the shore as the tide went out.

“The crews did an amazing job and worked really well with the coastguard to form a plan and establish safe systems to rescue him.

“It was a great example of joint working to rescue the man in a safe and effective manner.”

What is what3words?

What3words is a free smartphone app that can help the emergency services to find your location.

The app breaks the world into trillions of 3 metre by 3 metre squares, each with a unique three-word address. These three words can then be used to pinpoint your location more accurately.

Fire Service Control teams use what3words as one of the tools to help them get crews out as quickly as possible.

What to do if you get stuck in mud

According to the HM Coastguard, certain parts of the UK coastline, including beaches, are susceptible to soft ground such as mud or quicksand. This occurs due to areas of low-lying water that are exposed to the elements, particularly during harsh weather conditions.

If you find yourself stuck in mud, it is advised to remain calm, spread your weight as much as you can, and refrain from moving. Call 999 and request assistance from the Coastguard.

Those who are trapped should also discourage bystanders from attempting to rescue them, as it can be dangerous without the proper equipment and expertise.

The Coastguard recommends always checking local conditions and tide times and carrying a fully charged mobile phone when visiting coastal areas to stay easily contactable. It is also advisable to visit a lifeguarded beach and swim between red and yellow flags. In case of emergency, remember to Float to Live by lying on your back and relaxing, avoiding any urge to thrash about.

Recommended reading

• Man rescued after getting stuck in mud (Isle of Wight County Press)

• Fire brigade rescue two people struggling in 'really deep mud' (Daily Gazette)

• Buttons the pony rescued by fire service after getting stuck in muddy bog (The Northern Echo)