Shoreham RNLI go to aid of kitesurfer in suspected difficulties

The kitesurfer had been spotted just south of Shoreham Power Station by Shoreham's National Coastwatch Institution (NCI). The NCI was concerned for the safety of the kitesurfer and notified HM Coastguard.

Shoreham RNLI's inshore lifeboat (ILB) was launched at 4.20pm, with the crew on scene in just four minutes.

Upon arrival, the crew established that although being new to the sport, the kitesurfer was not in difficulty.

Dan Measor, ILB helm, said: "We were tasked to check on a kitesurfer suspected to be in difficulties, but when we arrived we were pleased to see that he was fine and doing everything he needed to keep safe. We’re always happy to be called out to check on someone who may be in difficulty, and would encourage anyone to ring 999 and ask for the Coastguard if they see someone in the water who they think may be in trouble."

The RNLI has the following advice for those going out kitesurfing:

• Always kite with another person.
• If you go alone, take a means of calling or signalling for help.
• Never ride out further than you can swim back.
• Equipment failure does happen. Be prepared.
• Check the conditions and tides. Don't go out in conditions you can't handle.
• Check what sizes of kites other riders are using. If you do not have the correct size, do not go out.
• Do not ask or allow someone who is not familiar with kites to help you launch or land - give them some training on how to do it.
• Always tell someone you are going out and when you will be back.
• Follow the safety advice from the governing body for kitesurfing, the BKSA, and other expert organisations.

For more information, visit: https://rnli.org/water-safety/choose-your-activity/kitesurfing

RNLI Media Contacts

Liz Zachary, Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer for RNLI South East, [email protected]

Stella Sims, RNLI Regional Communications Manager for London and South East England, 07483 316675, [email protected]

Sam Haddad, RNLI Regional Communications Manager for London and South East England, 01202 137713, [email protected]

Julie Rainey, RNLI Regional Communications Lead for London and South East England, 07827 358256, [email protected]

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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