
Poole RNLI volunteers rescue paddleboarder blown over a mile out to sea
Poole Lifeboat was requested to launch my HM Coastguard at 7.15pm (Sunday July 16) to a report of a paddle boarder getting blown out to the shipping channel, from Middle Beach, Studland.
The lifeboat landed the casualty ashore and passed her to the care of Swanage coastguard, as all was well, the lifeboat returned to station, refuelled, and was ready for service by 9pm.
This was the 76th launch so far this year for the Poole Lifeboat volunteers.
Tips to keep you safe:
- Have a lesson. This will develop your skills and knowledge making you time on the water more enjoyable in the future.
- Be aware of your environment and hazards. Understand the location you are supping in – does it change the equipment you need? Strong tidal currents could make it difficult to paddle in your chosen direction or even be unpredictable making you tire quickly. It's always advisable to understand the location you are paddling in as this will really help your SUPing experience.
- If you can, always go with a friend. It’s more fun, and they can help you if you get into difficulty.
- Remember to Float to Live. If you end up in the water unexpectedly or are in trouble in the water without your board then float on your back.
- Check the weather forecast and tide times before you set out. If the water is too choppy, you might find it difficult, especially if you are a beginner. And be aware, the conditions can change quickly. If in doubt don’t go out.
- Tell someone where you're going and when you'll be back. Don't leave the house without a mobile phone or communication device.
- Wear suitable clothing for the time of year. In the winter, you will want to use a wet or dry suit. In the summer although it may feel warm the water is often still very cold and if you fall in unexpectedly you might experience cold water shock so consider wearing a wetsuit.
- If you are launching on a lifeguarded beach, make sure you launch and recover between the black and white chequered flags. There should be less swimmers in this area, giving you more room to manoeuvre. Consider other water users by learning the rights of way in the surf. This can save you and others getting injured.
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, Twitter 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.