RNLI lifeguards in North Devon are now into their busiest part of the year and during the school summer holidays daily patrols are running from 10am-6pm on Woolacombe, Croyde, Sandymere and Westward Ho!.
The good weather and school holidays have meant beaches in North Devon have been well attended over past few weeks, which has also increased lifeguard activity.
RNLI lifeguards have dealt with a lot of minor first aids and weaver fish stings but have also been called into action for some more serious incidents.
Lifeguards have dealt with a couple of incidents involving SUPS (Stand-up paddleboarding) at Woolacombe.
Strong offshore winds dragged the paddleboarders far out off the coast and into difficulty and the RNLI is reminding people of the safety advice surrounding SUP’s.
The four main points are:
Choosing the correct leash is really important – most boards come with an ankle leash however these may not be suitable for the environment you are planning to paddle in.
If you are paddling in tidal or flowing waters such as rivers where there is a risk of entrapment or being caught on an object then wear a quick release waist leash.
Other notable incidents have come at Croyde where lifeguards performed multiple rescues at low tide on Friday 9 August.
Lifeguards were in the water either side of the designated bathing area and as the tide was turning conditions worsened which meant lifeguards closed the beach for a period of time to make sure everyone was safe.
With the August Bank Holiday weekend approaching, the conditions are likely to see to the biggest tides of the year and therefore the RNLI would like to remind people that if you are heading to the coast to go to a lifeguarded beach, swim and bodyboard between the red and yellow flags and if you are in trouble remember to float to live.
Lead Lifeguard Supervisor for North Devon, Matt Whitley said:
“The August Bank holiday is likely to see the biggest tidal surges of the season, therefore it is vital people take the necessary precautions, follow RNLI advice by going to a lifeguard beach between the hours of 10am-6pm and swimming and bodyboarding between the red and yellow flags where are lifeguards are constantly monitoring.”
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