Porthcawl RNLI’s volunteer crew were paged by HM Coastguard following a 999 from a concerned mother that her family members were being swept out to sea on paddleboards off Southerndown.
The charity’s Atlantic 85 lifeboat Rose of the Shires was launched on service. Whilst the lifeboat was enroute to Southerndown HM Coastguard received a call to say that all persons were now safely ashore and the lifeboat was stood down and returned to station.

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