Porthcawl RNLI’s volunteer crew were paged by HM Coastguard following a report from RNLI lifeguard colleagues at Southerndown that a paddleboarder may be struggling in the tidal current at Witches Point, Southerndown. An RNLI lifeguard had paddled out to monitor and assist the paddleboarder.
The charity’s Atlantic 85 lifeboat Rose of the Shires was launched on service and made best speed to the location. Once on scene it was established the paddleboarder was now off Whitmore Stairs. the paddleboarder accepted the offer of assistance and was taken onboard the lifeboat along with their equipment. They were then dropped back to the beach at Dunraven Bay, Southerndown.

The RNLI would promote that all water users check the weather and tide conditions before heading out to sea and always have the essential safety equipment including a lifejacket and a means of calling for help – such as a radio or mobile phone in a waterproof pouch. Never enter the water alone and tell someone what your planning on doing and when you expect to be back.

In a coastal emergency dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.

If you ever find yourself in difficulty in the water, remember Float to Live:

  • Tilt your head back with ears submerged
  • Relax, breathe normally and move your hands and legs to help you stay afloat
  • It’s ok if your legs sink, we all float differently
  • Once you’re over the initial shock, call for help or swim to safety

Remember it. Practise it. Share it.

To support Porthcawl RNLI’s volunteer crew and power us to our next rescue: https://fundraise.rnli.org/fundraisers/Porthcawl