Fowey lifeboat rescues two paddleboarders
On Wednesday July 2 Falmouth coastguard requested Fowey RNLI launch to assist two paddleboarders who were being blown offshore in a fresh north westerly wind. The coastguard had received a 999 call from a member of the public.
Fowey’s volunteer crew launched their inshore lifeboat and made best speed to the scene. A jet skier was standing by when the lifeboat arrived at the location. The two casualties were transferred to the lifeboat and then taken to the beach where they were handed over to the coastguard team who completed casualty care checks. Apart from being cold, both casualties were fine. The jet skier brought the paddle boards back in and the lifeboat returned to station.
Recent RNLI statistics show that offshore winds have been a significant contributor in stand-up paddleboarders getting into trouble. RNLI National Water Safety Partner, Sam Hughes, said: ‘Our rescue data shows that almost half of lifeboat launches to paddleboarders were due to offshore winds and tides, something water users can check before hitting the water.’ With 9% of paddleboarders reporting that they make none of the recommended preparations before hitting the water, the RNLI is urging people to make safety a priority this summer.
Key safety advice is to:
·Always wear a buoyancy aid
·Tell someone where you’re going
·Carry a mobile phone
·Check the weather
·Know your limits
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.