Bumper lifesaving weekend for RNLI East Dorset lifeguards
This weekend’s soaring temperatures saw a high numbers of water rescues on the area's beaches.
Lifeguards entered the water 35 times across the 12 lifeguarded beaches as thousands flocked to the coast to enjoy the perfect half term weather over the Bank Holiday weekend.
On Sunday evening at 6pm, just as the lifeguards were finishing work on Bournemouth beach, Raoul, an RNLI lifeguard in his third season on the local beaches, caught sight of two children caught in a rip current being dragged out to sea. He entered the water immediately with rescue tubes, swimming out to the two casualties, losing sight of one of them along the way. Raoul was able to reach both of the swimmers and to make them safe before returning them to the shore.
The easterly conditions combined with the tide generated a particularly strong rip current and the RNLI is asking anyone visiting the beach over half term to be extra careful if entering the water.
Raoul said, “I’m so glad that we were able to provide a happy conclusion to this family’s trip to the beach. The glorious weather can lull you into a false sense of security but even for strong swimmers, you can go from feeling safe to getting into serious trouble in a couple of minutes. If you’re planning to sea swim this week, please visit a lifeguarded beach, check the tide and wind conditions and stay between the red and yellow flags. Stay within your depth and swim parallel to shore so you can enjoy your swim safely. Always feel free to come and ask beach lifeguards for advice.”
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.