Broughty Ferry RNLI lifeguards rescue paddleboarders caught in currents

Noticing the group all on one paddleboard starting to drift downstream towards Broughty Ferry Castle with just one paddle between them and no buoyancy aid, RNLI lifeguard Josh Muir raised the alarm and entered the water alongside fellow lifeguard Parrish Whitlaw on rescue boards to assist.

Given the current spring tides at the moment, the cross-shore currents at Broughty Ferry Beach and rip currents around the castle are even stronger than usual. Once the charity’s lifeguards had reached the group, Josh towed two of the casualties and the paddleboard back, while Parrish took the third casualty on his rescue board.

While paddling back to the beach, the RNLI lifeguards realised that they weren’t making any progress against the current so decided to take the casualties into the harbour around the corner from the beach.

The UK Coastguard was contacted and Broughty Ferry RNLI lifeboat tasked, however was stood down when the lifeguards reached the harbour. The casualties were brought back round to Broughty Ferry Beach alongside the coastguard rescue team, who helped to check them.

With his twin brother having also rescued paddleboarders this summer, Josh said: ‘With the currents so strong, we had to put all of our training this summer into practice to ensure that we were able to help the casualties return safely back to shore.

‘We urge everyone coming to the coast to paddleboard to wear a life jacket and carry a means of communication with them, such as a mobile phone in a waterproof case. It is also important to check the local forecast for wind, tide and swell, as it is easy to be caught out in the sea.’

If you spot someone in difficulty on the coast, resist the urge to enter the water to help. Instead, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard. On a lifeguard patrolled beach, alert the lifeguards.

ENDS

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Claire Thomson, RNLI Media Engagement Placement for Scotland, 07929 673286, [email protected]

Natasha Bennett, RNLI Regional Media Officer for Scotland, 07826 900639, [email protected]

Martin Macnamara, RNLI Regional Media Manager for Scotland, 07920 365929, [email protected]

RNLI Press Office, 01202 336789

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