Cranfield RNLI Lifeguard rescue three paddleboarders in two incidents

At 12.30pm, Lifeguard Mike Whitaker was alerted to two paddleboarders before they had entered the water at Cranfield Point. Unable to stop them from entering the water the pair were pushed nearly 500 metres offshore by strengthening winds.

After spotting one casualty leaving their board and attempting to kick back toward shore, Matthew entered the water on a rescue board. On reaching the pair, he secured their paddleboard by leashing it to his rescue board.

Lifeguard Joe Brennan McCann then arrived to assist, taking the second casualty onto his own board. Working together, the lifeguards safely brought both individuals back to the beach.

A second incident at 2.24pm involved another paddleboarder who had entered the water at the same point and quickly found themselves in difficulty due to the continuing offshore winds.

Lifeguards Matthew Whitaker said: ‘Offshore winds can catch paddleboarders out very quickly, even on what looks like a calm day. If you’re heading out, make sure you check the wind direction, wear a leash, and carry a means of calling for help. Staying close to shore and choosing a lifeguarded beach can make all the difference when conditions change.’

If you are planning on using a paddleboard at the beach please make sure to:

• Always choose a lifeguarded beach and launch between the black and white chequered flags.

• Always check the tide and weather conditions before heading out

• Always carry a means of calling for help on your person in case of an emergency.’

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For more information please contact Ciaran Dixon, Communications Placement, on 00353 874764436 or [email protected], or Nuala McAloon, Regional Communications Manager on 00353 876483547 or [email protected] or Niamh Stephenson, Regional Communications Lead on 00353 871254124 or [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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