Challaborough RNLI lifeguards rescue two after RIB capsize

The RIB with two casualties on board was making its way back to the beach but, at the last minute, decided against its plan and turned to head back out to sea. Due to its positioning side on to the waves, a large wave rolled the boat, throwing the two occupants into the water.

RNLI lifeguards Alex Allen and Amy Edmonds immediately responded and paddled over to the casualties using rescue boards. Alex managed to assist one casualty onto his rescue board and paddled him back to shore.

Amy attempted to help the other casualty onto her board but, as his lifejacket had inflated, was unable to and had to swim him back to safety. The lifeguards were also assisted by Bigbury Coastguard Cliff Rescue team.

The lifeguards assessed the casualty’s conditions, warmed them up and helped them to recover their boat later in the day.

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

‘This was a case of unfortunate timing as the wave caught the boat just as it had turned side on. Both casualties were wearing life jackets though which essentially saved their lives by keeping them afloat until the lifeguards could reach them.

If you are taking a trip out on a RIB such as this one, always remember to wear a lifejacket or buoyancy aid. Carry a means of calling for help and check the tide and weather conditions before you set off.’

Notes to Editor

· Photo attached: the capsized RIB

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

RNLI Media Contacts

For more information, please contact Jessica Putt, Media Engagement Placement, at [email protected] or Amy Caldwell, Regional Media Manager, at [email protected].

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 146,000 lives.

Learn more about the RNLI

For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, X, TikTok and YouTube. News releases, videos and photos are available on the News Centre.

Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries

Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.