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Both Fowey RNLI lifeboats launch to rescue paddleboarders
On Saturday 15 August, Fowey RNLI were tasked at 3:25pm to launch both their D Class and Atlantic 85 lifeboats to assist four casualties on three paddleboards off Lantivet Bay to the east of Fowey.
Two of the boards were around one mile offshore and were struggling to get back to the beach in a gusty northerly wind. Fowey’s volunteer crew launched their Atlantic 85 lifeboat first at 3:37pm and arrived on scene to the two offshore casualties at 3:45pm. The crew then towed the casualties safely back to the beach.
The crew launched their D class lifeboat at 3:42pm and arrived at the location of the other two casualties at 3:55pm. The two people were on one paddleboard and by this time, these two casualties were safely close to the beach and did not require any assistance.
Our lifeboats get called out to rescue paddleboarders on a regular basis, especially in the warm weather. The RNLI advises paddleboarders to always check the weather forecast and tide times and don’t get caught out by the weather. Avoid offshore winds as they will tire you out quickly when trying to return to shore. Always wear a personal floatation device and carry a means of calling for help. Also wear a leash and hold onto your board to help you float if you do get into trouble.
RNLI Media Contacts
For further information, please contact:
Cathy Baillie, Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer for RNLI South West, [email protected]
Kyle Reed, RNLI Regional Communications Manager for South West England, 07786 668847, [email protected]
Amy Caldwell, RNLI Regional Communications Lead for South West England, 07920 818807, [email protected]
RNLI Press Office, 01202 336789, [email protected]
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
For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, TikTok 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.