Double rescue by Thanet RNLI lifeguard
At Joss Bay at 5pm Wednesday a swimmer who was swept out by a rip current was rescued by Thanet lifeguard Taine, only for two surfers to collide moments later.
The swimmer, who was being assisted by one of the surfers, was uninjured as Taine took him to shore on the rescue board. As they reached the shore, a wave threw the two surfers together and resulted in one of the surfers sustaining an injury to his foot.
Taine rescued the casualty and applied first aid to the injury for twenty minutes before sending them to the hospital for further treatment.
‘Thankfully, it was a happy ending this time,’ Taine said. ‘But it’s important to remember to always swim between the red-and-yellow flags, and surf between the black-and-white flags; they’re the safest areas of the beach to do so.
Alerting us or calling the Coastguard on 999 is the best course of action if you see an incident taking place – we never mind checking out your concerns as we’d rather be able to help before something turns into a serious situation.
Also if you happen to get swept out in a rip current, swim to the left or right when you can and then back to shore when you’re able rather than fighting it and becoming exhausted. Also shout and wave for help if you’re able so we can come and assist.’
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