RNLI Jersey lifeguards complete challenging rescue as season ends.

The casualty was approximately 400 metres offshore El Tico beach when RNLI lifeguards Ollie Gould, Jean Barbe-Pinel and Nathan Elms, who had been monitoring the situation, recognised that conditions were becoming increasingly challenging.

With the tide continuing to rise, access points becoming cut off and visibility reducing after sunset, sea conditions also began to worsen. Large waves were breaking against the seawall, creating significant backwash and increasing the risks for anyone in the water.

After carefully assessing the conditions, including the large swell and powerful backwash, the RNLI lifeguards made the decision not to enter the water, recognising that doing so would put them at unacceptable risk and could compromise the rescue.

Instead, they used their training and experience to direct the casualty from shore, instructing him to detach from his equipment and make his way towards a set of stairs between waves.

As the casualty reached the seawall area, RNLI lifeguard Ollie Gould was able to get hold of the casualty from a position of safety on the stairs. Despite being struck by several large waves, Ollie maintained his grip and successfully helped bring the wing foiler out of the water.

An ambulance was requested to assess the casualty following the rescue. The St Helier All Weather Lifeboat and Jersey Fire and Rescue Service were subsequently stood down.

Jake Elms, RNLI Lead Lifeguard Supervisor for Jersey, said:

‘This rescue highlights the professionalism and judgement our lifeguards use every day to keep people safe.

‘The team continually assessed the situation as conditions changed and made calm decisions throughout. Choosing not to enter the water was the safest option for everyone involved, and their ability to adapt their rescue plan ultimately helped bring the casualty safely ashore.'

He continued:

'This season has been one of the busiest we’ve seen, with heatwaves bringing huge numbers of people to our beaches, and periods of challenging weather and storms.

'Our team has worked tirelessly to keep beachgoers safe and have responded brilliantly to everything the season has thrown at them. While our seasonal cover comes to an end on 1 November, we’re already looking ahead and are excited to return next year for another successful season helping people enjoy the coast safely.'

The RNLI is also reminding anyone taking part in watersports to plan their activity carefully and avoid entering the water close to or after dark. Reduced visibility can make it harder to assess conditions and more challenging for emergency services to locate people should they get into difficulty.

As the RNLI lifeguard season comes to an end on Jersey's beaches, the RNLI is urging beachgoers to take extra caution when entering the water and never to go alone. If you see someone in trouble, call 999 and ask for the coastguard.

Notes to editors

• RNLI seasonal lifeguard cover comes to an end on all of Jersey's beaches on 1 November.
• If you see someone in trouble in the water, call 999 and ask for the coastguard.