Exmouth RNLI rescue two paddleboarders off Budleigh Salterton beach

In discussion with the Launch Authority and the Coxswain it was decided to launch Exmouth RNLI’s all weather lifeboat, R and J Welburn, as well due to a strong offshore breeze and darkness approaching. The volunteer crews quickly launched both lifeboats and made best speed around the headland to the last reported location of the paddleboarders.

During the initial search the all weather lifeboat was able to locate the first casualty, who was waving the torch on their mobile phone to indicate their location. They were recovered onto the all weather lifeboat and confirmed that the second paddleboarder was unaccounted for, the lifeboat crew conducted a welfare check of the casualty onboard. With visibility deteriorating into darkness the all weather lifeboat conducted a co-ordinated search alongside Exmouth RNLI inshore lifeboat, Coastguard Rescue Team and other responding assets.

Paralume flares were deployed to illuminate the search area and assist with locating the casualty, during the search the all weather lifeboat spotted the second casualty who was further out to sea than the first and successfully recovered them to the lifeboat. The casualties were returned to Exmouth, where they were handed over to Coastguard personnel for welfare checks and safety advice before being reunited with family and friends.

Exmouth RNLI’s helm for the inshore lifeboat, Jake Butt, said ‘From an inshore lifeboat perspective, the conditions were particularly challenging, with a strong offshore wind creating a very choppy sea state. This made searching difficult, especially as darkness fell. We utilised the flares carried on board to illuminate the search area, improving visibility and increasing our chances of locating the casualty.’

The incident was declared over at 10.25 pm, both lifeboats returned to the Exmouth lifeboat station where the lifeboats were washed down, refuelled and made ready for the next shout.

Notes to editors

The RNLI is the Royal National Lifeboat Institution.

Photo caption: R and J Welburn on training exercise

Photo credit: Stephen Duncombe

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