RNLI lifeguards at Bantham rescue learner surfer from rip current

RNLI lifeguards Alex Tucker and Loic Doison were on patrol at the waters edge on Bantham beach when they noticed the casualty, who was an inexperienced surfer, become caught in a strong rip current.

The exhausted surfer was attempting to paddle against the rip current and back towards the shore whilst pulling his board along next to him.

Alex and Loic immediately launched the inshore rescue boat (IRB), helped the casualty into the boat and back to safety ashore.

Kate Doison, RNLI lifeguard supervisor for the area, said:

‘This incident occurred as the tide was dropping and this, combined with the big surf we were experiencing that day, causes the most dangerous rip currents. The RNLI advises that anyone caught in a rip current does not try to swim against it.

Instead, if you have a surfboard or bodyboard, hang onto it and use it as a flotation device. If you are a strong swimmer, try to swim parallel to against the shore to free yourself from the rip. Always wave one hand in the air and shout for help to attract the attention of the lifeguards.’

Notes to Editor

• RNLI lifeguards patrol over 249 beaches around the UK and Channel Islands

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