Trearddur Bay RNLI rescue bodyboarder caught in rip current

The station's Atlantic 85 lifeboat Hereford Endeavour with four volunteer crew on board was launched. Two of the casualties had managed to make it back to shore and call for help, whilst the third casualty was recovered into the lifeboat.

Volunteer Helm Lee Duncan said:

‘Thankfully this was a shout with a good outcome; there is a strong rip current at that part of the beach that can easily take you out to sea.

'One of the younger casualties had recently been taught the "Float to Live" technique in their swimming lessons and used it when they got into difficulty. Most importantly they remained calm and were able to get back to shore.’

If you do get caught in a rip current, don’t try to swim against it or you will get exhausted. If you can stand, wade and don’t swim. If you can, swim parallel to the shore until free of the rip and then head for shore.

How to float:

1. Fight your instinct - do not try to swim immediately, as this can cause panic and exhaustion.
2. Tilt your head back with your ears submerged.
3. Relax and try to breathe normally.
4. Use your hands and feet gently to help you stay afloat.
5. It's OK if your legs sink we all float differently.
6. Once your breathing is controlled, call and wave for help, or swim to safety if you can.

All casualties were deemed safe and well with no medical assistance required. The lifeboat was washed down and made ready for further service calls shortly before 6pm.

For further information, please contact:
Megan Dixon Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer Trearddur Bay RNLI on 07922303963 or email [email protected]

Claire Fitzpatrick-Smith Regional Communications Manager Wales, North West and Isle of Man, on 07977728315 or email [email protected]

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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.

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