Seahouses RNLI launch to paddle boarders caught in rip current
Today at approximately 2.48pm Seahouses Lifeboat Crew were tasked to launch their D-Class Inshore Lifeboat by Humber Coastguard. The initial report stated two casualties on a paddle board were struggling against a rip just off Bamburgh Beach and being pushed further out to sea.
As the boat prepared to launch further information advised a third person had entered the water to try and assist.
The four volunteer crew made best speed towards the search location, arriving not long after the original distress call. On arrival, two teenage casualties were sighted on the board with the third person in the water holding onto the back to stay afloat. Experienced Helm Tris Owen instructed the crew to rescue the two children first as the adult appeared able to stay afloat holding the paddle board.
With the two teenagers on board, the inshore boat was beached on Bamburgh Beach. The casualties were handed into the care of the waiting Coastguard Rescue Teams from Seahouses and Howick. The crew turned the boat to sea and headed back out through the rolling swell to rescue the last person and recover the paddle board. Once aboard, he confirmed he was all in order, just exhausted from fighting against the rip.
With all persons and the paddle board ashore, the crew were stood down by Humber Coastguard. They returned to Seahouses Harbour to refuel and clean the boat ready to return to service.
Helm Tris Owen said: 'We were very lucky to arrive on scene when we did, as the paddle board was being pushed closer and closer to the rocks which could have had a catastrophic outcome. Incidents like this show just how quickly things can change at sea always wear a lifejacket, carry a means of calling for help, and make sure you understand the local tides and currents before heading out.'
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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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