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Welsh RNLI lifeguards save lives across the globe

Lifeguards News Release

Three RNLI lifeguards from Bridgend in Wales have put their RNLI training into action and saved two lives after a group of bodyboarders got in trouble on a beach in New Zealand.

Surf Life Saving New Zealand

Now the RNLI lifeguarding season in Wales has ended, a number of lifeguards have travelled to New Zealand to keep visitors safe. The Bridgend lifeguards are currently busy training in preparation for the start of the season.

RNLI lifeguards Sam Johns, Iolo John and Harry Chick had planned to launch their Inflatable Rescue Boat (IRB) for some training when they spotted three bodyboards in any area of the beach that is known to be problematic.

The lifeguards, who are part of Piha Surf Lifesaving Club, spotted a large set of waves which swept the group off their bodyboards on Piha Beach. The group were without their floating devices and were not wearing fins, they soon realised they were in danger. They began waving and shouting for the lifeguards’ attention.

The lifeguards raced over amidst concerns that with each wave that rolled through, their heads were going underwater. One of the group made it ashore leaving the other two needing rescuing.

The lifeguards picked up the first casualty in the impact zone, Iolo pulled him aboard just as the boat punched through a wave. The second casualty was further out, the IRB made its way to him, pulled him aboard before making its way back to shore.

The off-duty lifeguards notified SurfCom (equivalent to HM Coastguard) to request an ambulance. All three casualties had swallowed water, the two rescued by Sam and Iolo were in and out of consciousness and required medical attention.

Sam, Iolo, Harry and their colleague Paul Newnham performed first aid until the first responders arrived. The casualties were transferred to hospital by ambulance.

Sam Johns ex RNLI Lifeguard Supervisor for Bridgend said:

‘Monday’s events show how quickly circumstances can change. At first, the bodyboarders didn’t realise how much trouble they were in. Fortunately, as we continued with our training, we were able to respond when they needed help.

‘This incident highlights the importance of always choosing a lifeguarded beach and swimming between the flags.

‘Thanks to our RNLI training, Iolo and I are confident and able to execute rescues in challenging conditions. We’re very grateful for the opportunity to continue to develop our lifesaving skills here in New Zealand.’

Matt Childs RNLI Lead Lifeguard Supervisor for Bridgend said:

‘We’re very proud to hear our lifeguards are continuing to save lives on the other side of the world. RNLI lifeguard training is thorough and their experience working Welsh beaches has prepared them for dealing with challenging rescues and first aids.

‘We wish them the best of luck with their season. We hope they enjoy the experience and continue to save lives at sea.’

Media Contacts

For more information, please contact Anya Walton Media Engagement Placement at [email protected] or call 07977468268. Alternatively contact the RNLI Press Office at [email protected] or call 01202336789.

Surf Life Saving New Zealand

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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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.

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