Llandudno Lifeboats launch for overdue windsurfer.
Both Llandudno’s lifeboats launched on Friday evening following a tasking request from HM Holyhead Coastguard to begin a search for an overdue windsurfer who had failed to return to the beach at Llanddulas.
The inshore lifeboat Dr Barbara Saunderson with a crew of three launched at 7.35pm followed by the all-weather lifeboat William F Yates five minutes later.
Both lifeboats had proceeded around the Little Orme to commence their search from Rhos on Sea when shortly after, to everyone’s relief, the crews were informed that the windsurfer had finally made a safe return to Llanddulas albeit a number of hours overdue.
An RNLI spokesperson commented: 'While we want our visitors to North Wales to enjoy all that the beaches can offer, it is always important to thoroughly prepare for any activity you plan to undertake on the coastal waters.'
For windsurfers there are several ways to ensure you can stay safe:
ALWAYS:
• carry a means of calling for help and keep it within reach
• check your equipment for damage before use
• tell someone where you are going and when you will be back
• check the weather forecast and tide times
• wear a suitable approved buoyancy aid.
NEVER:
• go alone
• sail in offshore winds without safety boat cover
• get on the water in conditions above your capability
• ditch your board − it will keep you afloat in an emergency and make you easier to find • leave without a signalling or communication device.
RNLI media contacts
For more information, please contact Jonathan Coe, Llandudno Lifeboat Press Officer on 07910 861193. Alternatively contact Eleri Roberts, RNLI Media Officer on 01745 585162 / 07771 941390 or email [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.
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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.