The Mumbles RNLI pulls a person from the water

A member of the public spotted the casualty in the water and immediately raised the alarm. Their quick action in calling the Coastguard ensured help was on the way within minutes. The casualty had adopted the 'Float to Live' position, which helped them to stay afloat and conserve energy until rescue.

Both lifeboats made best speed to the scene. The casualty was recovered from the water by the inshore lifeboat (ILB) crew, who provided initial casualty care before transferring the casualty to Swansea Marina to await an ambulance. Fortunately, the casualty was breathing and conscious.

RNLI crew and Coastguard teams continued to provide care until the handover to ambulance service colleagues was complete.

Among our volunteer crew are casualty carers, trained to give first aid and emergency care at sea allowing casualties to be assessed and given necessary treatment immediately.

Deputy Coxswain, Dai Thomas, said:

'Fortunately, both our lifeboats were on a planned exercise, and the inshore lifeboat was on scene within minutes. Our crew quickly located and recovered the casualty, who had wisely adopted the "Float to Live" position.'

Volunteer Crew Member, Henry Best, explains how to float to live:

'If you fall into the water unexpectedly, fight the urge to thrash around. Instead, lie back in the water with you ears submerged and try and relax to control your breathing. Spread your arms and legs to help you stay afloat. Once calm, you can signal for help or move to safety if possible.

'Following this simple advice will give you the best chance of survival.'

At 9.30pm, both lifeboats returned to the station and were made ready for service.

The Mumbles RNLI have had 92 shouts this year. Our volunteer crew are ready 24/7, and only remain so with your support.

RNLI media contact

For more information please contact The Mumbles Lifeboat Press Officer, Adam Gilbert: [email protected] or 07717 793890.

Alternatively, you can contact Claire Fitzpatrick-Smith, Regional Communications Manager: [email protected] or 07977 728 315, or the RNLI Press Office on 01202 336789 or [email protected].

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.

Learn more about the RNLI

For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, X, TikTok and YouTube. News releases, videos and photos are available on the News Centre.

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.