Port Talbot RNLI tasked to swimmers in difficulties

Despite it being a Sunday evening the response from our volunteer crew was rapid, but controlled, with the station's inshore lifeboat, Craig Morris , swiftly being launched within minutes of the pager sounding, into the setting sun on the Aberavon Beach launch site.

Making best possible safe speed to the reported location on the Small Side Beach, arriving on scene within minutes. Knowing someone is in difficulty in the water means everything is done as quickly and efficiently as possible.

On arrival, our volunteer crew were able to confirm that the two young casualties were being assisted ashore by a member of the public. While a third swimmer, who had gone to the aid of the other two casualties, was also seen safely leaving the water.

Once the crew had confirmed with the Coastguard that none of the lifeboat crew were required, the crew were stood down.

James Jennings, Launch Authority, said:

'The tasking to "persons in the water" is always our highest priority call. The rapid speed of the response by our volunteer crew meant we were on scene from initial pager within minutes. Although we were not needed in the rescue of the swimmers, thankfully it was a positive outcome this time and they had managed to get ashore.

'We always advised that people never go swimming alone and check the weather and tide conditions. If you find yourself in difficulty in the water, remember float to live.

'Tilt your head back with your ears submerged and relax and try to breathe normally. You can spread out and move your hands and legs to help you stay afloat. It's fine if your legs sink, we all float differently. Then once you're breathing is calm you can call for help or swim to safety if you can. It's a great idea to practise floating in a local pool, so you know how you float.'

Once stood down the volunteers returned to their Aberavon Beach front where the lifeboat was recovered, refuelled, washed down and made ready for service.

RNLI media contacts
For more information please contact Port Talbot RNLI Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer, Ceri Jeffreys on [email protected], or Claire Fitzpatrick-Smith, Regional Communications Manager on [email protected] or 07977 728 315.

Alternatively, you can contact the RNLI Press Office on [email protected] or 01202 336789.

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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