Fowey RNLI launch to assist swimmer in rip current
On Sunday 24 August Falmouth coastguard requested that Fowey launch their lifeboat after receiving reports of a female swimmer in difficulties in the water at Porthpean, after getting caught in a rip current.
The woman was holding on to an orange buoy about half a mile offshore. The coastguard helicopter was also tasked.
Fowey’s volunteer crew launched their Atlantic 85 lifeboat at 6:25pm and made best speed to the scene, arriving at 6:34pm. On arrival St Austell coastguard confirmed that the woman was safely out of the water and our crew were stood down and returned to station.
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If you get caught in a rip – stay calm, don’t panic.
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If you can stand, wade. Don’t try to swim.
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Don’t swim directly against the rip or you’ll get exhausted.
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Swim parallel to the beach until free of the rip, then make for shore.
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If you can’t swim, float. Lean back in the water and extend your arms and legs.
Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,700 lives.
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Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries
Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.