Blown Offshore in Seconds: RNLI Rescue Highlights Dangers of Inflatables
At 6.00pm on Tuesday 28 April 2026, volunteer crews from Weymouth RNLI launched both their Inshore Lifeboat and All-Weather Lifeboat, Ernest & Mabel, following a report from a member of the public of an inflatable being blown offshore near the Fine Foundation Wild Chesil Centre on Chesil Beach.
Both lifeboats and their volunteer crews responded immediately in north easterly winds. The Inshore Lifeboat quickly located two people who had been fishing from an inflatable mattress and were being carried further offshore. Crew members brought them safely on board before returning them to shore, where they were handed into the care of HM Coastguard at approximately 7.00pm. Both lifeboats then returned to Weymouth Harbour, arriving back at 8.30pm.
This incident highlights how quickly situations can escalate along the coastline. Strong offshore winds can rapidly carry inflatables away from the beach, leaving those on board vulnerable and unable to return safely.
Inflatables can be great fun when they’re used safely. But every summer, they’re one of the most common reasons lifeboat crews and lifeguards are called to action. They’re not designed for the beach so it’s easy to get swept out to sea.
If you are bringing an inflatable to the beach this summer, Weymouth RNLI is reminding the public of these important safety tips;
· choose a lifeguarded beach and stay close to shore between the red and yellow flags
· wear a buoyancy aid or lifejacket
· make sure children are supervised
· never use inflatables in big waves or when orange windsock is flying.
And remember, if you see someone in trouble, dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard
Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI is the charity that 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 146,700 lives.
Learn more about the RNLI
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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.