The Selsey Coastguard Rescue Team warned people not to dig holes deeper than waist height after the incident earlier today (July 10).
At 4.47pm, the team were paged to the incident on West Wittering Beach.
The coastguard said: “The casualty had dug a huge hole before their friends decided to bury him 6-7ft deep in the hole.
“West Wittering Lifeguards and staff were quickly on scene and we were also called.
“Once the casualty had been released from the sand they were given oxygen and taken to the first aid room to be checked over and assessed. An ambulance was also tasked to check the casualty.
“The casualty was extremely lucky that they weren’t crushed or suffocated.”
Following the incident, the coastguard issued a warning against similar behaviour.
A spokesman said: “Sandcastles, buckets and spades are among the joys of a trip to the seaside – but some excavations can pose a real risk to visitors, particularly small children.
“Buckets and spades, digging holes and playing in the sand are all part of the fun at the beach – and long may it continue.
“But there are hidden risks of serious injury from falls when deep gaps are left unfilled, often where children are running around.
“Sand is also unstable and can suddenly collapse on top of you if you’re digging a hole, tunnel or piling it up beside you. It can cause crushing or suffocation.
“Avoid digging tunnels or holes deeper than waist height.
“Fill in holes before you leave the beach to prevent injuries to others.
“If you’re in trouble by the coast, call 999 and ask for Coastguard.
“Sand rescues must be carried out gently to avoid adding pressure around a trapped casualty and to ensure they can breathe.
“A first line of rescuers sweeps back the sand by using their hands to avoid further injury to the person trapped.
“They are backed up by a second and third line moving the excavated material further away using whatever they can: buckets, spades and frisbees. This is to prevent the sand collapsing back into the hole.
“In an emergency out at sea or along the coast dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”
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