RNLI lifeguards undertake lifesaving rescue at Trebarwith Strand

At approximately 6.05pm, RNLI Lifeguard Joe Bracegirdle was asking beachgoers to leave the water as patrols came to a close and the red and yellow flags were being removed. During this time, Joe noticed three people in the water shouting and waving for help, with one casualty visibly struggling and repeatedly going under the water.

Joe immediately alerted fellow RNLI Lifeguard Kyra, and both RNLI lifeguards entered the water with rescue tubes to respond to the incident.

Former RNLI Lifeguard Ella Boxall, who was surfing nearby, spotted the casualties and quickly paddled over to assist. Ella pulled the struggling casualty up from under the water and supported all three casualties on her surfboard. Nearby paddleboarders also helped by providing additional support as the RNLI lifeguards reached the group.

Working together, Joe, Kyra and Ella safely brought the casualties back to shore, where they were assessed by the lifeguards. All three casualties were safely discharged with no further medical treatment required.

John Bull, RNLI Lifeguard Supervisor at Padstow said:

‘This rescue highlights how quickly conditions can change and how important it is to listen to RNLI lifeguard advice, especially towards the end of the day when patrols are finishing. We'd also like to thank Ella and the nearby paddleboarders whose quick actions helped keep the casualties afloat until we could get them safely back to shore.’

The RNLI is reminding beachgoers to:

· Visit a lifeguarded beach whenever possible.

· Always swim between the red and yellow flags.

· Be aware that lifeguard patrols end at 6pm, after which beaches may no longer be actively supervised.

· Speak to lifeguards before entering the water, as they have the most up-to-date knowledge of local conditions and hazards.

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For further information, please contact:

Annabelle Spires, RNLI Communications Placement at [email protected] or on 07521943895

RNLI Press Office, 01202 336789, [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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