Busy week of rescues for lifeguards patrolling Perranporth beach

On Monday (29 June), Perranporth lifeguards launched the Inshore Rescue Boat (IRB) to a surfer in distress. Lifeguards launched the IRB and headed out towards the surfer who had been swept outside of the black and white flagged area and looked to be struggling in the conditions.

With tricky conditions and continuous breaking waves, the lifeguards managed to spot the surfer and pulled alongside. With multiple efforts to safely get the surfer on board and avoid the IRB being capsized or flipped by the breaking waves, lifeguards eventually had the casualty and his surfboard in the vessel. The surfer was safely returned to shore and was very thankful for the lifeguard’s assistance.

On Tuesday 30 June, Perranporth RNLI lifeguards received a call from the Coastguard with reports of a kayaker in difficulty, quite some distance off Perranporth beach. RNLI lifeguards launched the Rescue Water Craft (RWC) and headed out back to search for the kayaker, making their way through 4-5 ft breaking surf.

During the search, lifeguards spotted a surf ski through the large breaking waves, about 800m offshore. The lifeguards struggled to keep a visual on the surf ski and casualty as it blended in with the white water and breaking waves. The casualty was found clinging to the surf ski in the water, using the equipment to stay afloat. As the lifeguards quickly helped the casualty onto the RWC, the casualty looked very cold and pale after being in the water for some time.

The lifeguards quickly returned them to shore, skilfully making their way in through large dumping waves. Once returned to shore, Perranporth lifeguards brought the casualty to the lifeguard facility to warm up with a blanket and further assessment.

On Wednesday (1 July), RNLI lifeguards were called into action again as they responded to a young bodyboarder who had been overcome by the large breaking waves and dragged out beyond his depth by the strong currents. RNLI lifeguard on duty responded quickly on a rescue board to paddle out in the surf and bring him safely back to shore, where he was met by his very relieved Dad.

Drustan Ward, RNLI Lifeguard Supervisor said:

‘It's been a busy week already for the team, with warmer weather to come. In all three incidents, they put their professional training into action and their swift and coordinated response meant that those who entered the water this week made it home safely.’

‘As a reminder, if you are visiting the coast, please try and visit at a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags. If you get into difficulty, remember float to live.

‘If you see anyone in difficulty in the water, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.’

If you find yourself in trouble in the water, the RNLI’s safety advice is Float to Live:

• Tilt your head back with your ears submerged

• Relax and try to breathe normally

• Move your hands and legs to help you stay afloat

• It’s OK if your legs sink, we all float differently

• Once your breathing is under control, call for help or swim to safety.

To find your nearest lifeguarded beach visit: www.rnli.org/find-my-nearest/lifeguarded-beaches