RNLI issue safety warning after RNLI lifeguards rescue surfers at Le Braye

The warning follows multiple rescues carried out by RNLI lifeguards over the past week. In one incident at St Ouen’s Bay, RNLI lifeguard Jean Barbe-Pinel undertook a rescue using the rescue watercraft (RWC) after a surfer was swept up the bay from Le Braye to El Tico in hazardous sea conditions. The casualty had been caught in a strong rip current, with heavy surf conditions, backwash against the sea wall and a rapidly incoming tide.

The conditions at the time were made more dangerous by the tidal state. Jersey has a large tidal range but during spring tides, and particularly during periods of large swell, the sea will rise quickly, intensify rip currents and reduce safe exit points along bays and headlands.

Jake Elms, Lead Lifeguard Supervisor, said:

‘People enjoying the waters around Jersey are encouraged to check tide times and sea conditions to ensure they are suitable for their ability and experience. Using lifeguarded beaches and staying within the supervised areas marked by flags can significantly reduce risk.

‘Sea conditions at the time included a heavy swell, which can change quickly and present challenges even for experienced water users.’

Beach users are advised to:

• Always check tide times and weather forecasts before entering the water

• Choose lifeguarded beaches and stick to the supervised areas marked by flags

• Be mindful of rip currents and tidal cut‑off points, particularly around headlands

• Only take part in activities suitable for their skill level and experience

RNLI lifeguard services will continue daily patrols on Le Braye beach until 19 April when patrols will be weekend only until daily cover resumes on 2 May.

For more safety advice, visit rnli.org/safety.

Notes to editors:

• RNLI lifeguard services will continue daily patrols on Le Braye beach until 19 April when patrols will be weekend only until daily cover resumes on 2 May.

• RNLI lifeguard patrols will begin on 23 May at El Tico Beach, Greve De Lecq beach, St Brelade’s Bay Beach, Plemont Beach, and Watersplash Beach.

RNLI media contacts

Annabelle Spiers, RNLI Communications Placement at [email protected] or on 07521943895, or Amy Caldwell, RNLI Regional Communications Lead at [email protected], or RNLI press office on 01202 336789

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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.