Margate RNLI assists paddleboarders and swimmers

UK Coastguard received information around 3pm today (Tuesday 2 August) that two people on a paddleboard were being swept out to sea by strong offshore winds off Joss Bay Broadstairs, A RNLI lifeguard from Joss Bay was proceeding to assist on a rescue board.

Margate RNLI’s D class inshore lifeboat was tasked and once on scene commenced a search of the area, quickly locating the lifeguard in company with the casualty craft and two male occupants around one and a half miles off Kingsgate Bay. All three were taken on board the lifeboat along with the paddleboard and rescue board and landed at Kingsgate Bay. The welfare of the two casualties was assessed, both being safe and well and after the lifeguard was transferred back to Joss Bay the lifeboat returned to station.

Shortly after, UK Coastguard tasked Margate Coastguard Rescue Team following a report that a swimmer had been recovered from the sea by the harbour lighthouse. As the lifeboat crew were still at the station, three Cascare-trained crew members also responded with first aid equipment. The swimmer was located by the lifeboat crew and coastguard officers and after an initial assessment handed into the care of South East Coast Ambulance Service.

Christian Wright, Deputy Launching Authority, Margate RNLI said: “People using small craft often underestimate how quickly they can be blown out to sea with fresh offshore winds and adverse tides. With just their hands or short paddles they will soon be in serious difficulties and fortunately on this occasion their plight was seen from shore. We urge people to only use lifeguarded beaches and seek advice from the lifeguards who will have specialist local knowledge. Being able to summon assistance is also essential and paddleboarders are advised to carry a mobile phone in a waterproof bag – it could save your life.”

Notes to editors

· Margate lifeboat station has been operating since 1860. To learn more about the lifeboat station go to: https://rnli.org/find-my-nearest/lifeboat-stations/margate-lifeboat-station

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