Newbiggin called to swimmers

The two swimmers had been in the northern area of Newbiggin Bay when conditions compromised their safety. One swimmer managed to reach the shore whilst the other one awaited rescue.

Humber coastguard received a call around 13.40 hours and requested the launch of Newbiggin's Atlantic 85 lifeboat 'Richard Wake Burdon'. The lifeboat duly launched with four volunteer crew on board to begin a search in choppy sea conditions in the centre of the bay. With assistance from the Coastguard Rescue Teams from Blyth and Newbiggin further information identified a more precise area to search and the casualty was then located to be brought into the lifeboat. Once on board the casualty was checked over before the safe transfer ashore.

Both swimmers were checked over in the boathouse then taken by the North East Ambulance Service for assessment at the local hospital.

Richard Martin RNLI Water Safety Officer for Newbiggin RNLI , said: 'Cold water swimming is becoming extremely popular and here are a few things to keep you safe:

· Always take a means of calling for help like a mobile phone in a waterproof pouch. You must be able to reach it in an emergency.

· Acclimatise to cold water slowly, entering the water gradually to reduce the risk of cold-water shock. Always swim parallel to the shore and not straight out. Cold water and currents can tire you quickly and make it harder to return to shore.

· Always consider using a tow float and wear a brightly coloured swim hat. This will increase your visibility in the water.

· If you find yourself in danger in the water, float to live.

· Don’t forget to check the tide times before you start your activity.

· Dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard if you get into difficulty around the coast.’

Further advice about open water swimming is available here:

https://rnli.org/safety/choose-your-activity/open-water-swimming

Find out more at RNLI.org/safety

For more information please telephone Richard Martin, RNLI Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer Newbiggin on 07980 010544 or [email protected] or contact RNLI Public Relations on 01202 336789

If you would like to find out more about Newbiggin lifeboat station, its volunteers and its heritage then take a look at the local website.

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI charity 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 142,700 lives.

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