The RNLI is urging Boardmasters festivalgoers and beach users to stay safe this week.
On Sunday a lifeguard at Fistral Beach saved the life of a swimmer who had been dragged out to sea by a sudden rip current. The incident happened near the edge of the red and yellow flagged area, where a flash rip current formed, pulling the swimmer out. RNLI Lifeguard Niamh McCabe responded immediately, using a rescue board to reach the casualty, who was intermittently submerged and calling for help. The RNLI says thanks to Niamh’s quick response, the swimmer was safely brought back to shore, where the lifeguard team carried out casualty care. The incident has been classed as a ‘life saved’ – meaning the person would almost certainly have drowned without RNLI intervention. RNLI Lifeguard Supervisor - Andy Thomas said: “With Boardmasters Festival coming up, we are preparing for a very busy week. Much like every year, we will be pulling in resources, equipment and lifeguards to support us here in Newquay. Last year, our lifeguards in Newquay saved three lives and performed more than 100 rescues over the Boardmasters weekend.” “We would like to urge beachgoers to choose a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags. Rip currents can occur very suddenly, and staying within the designated swimming area means our lifeguards can keep you safe.”
“This type of rescue demonstrates just how quickly conditions can change. Our teams are highly trained and prepared to respond quickly. We have had a very busy summer so far on our Newquay beaches, and we only expect this to continue for the rest of the summer holiday period.”
Newquay Easter Egg-stravaganza rescheduled due to weather
MP meets Newquay sports clubs to discuss future of facilities
Final Skybus flight from Newquay to Gatwick as subsidised route ends early
Free interactive railway exhibition train to visit Newquay station
Surf statue takes shape on Newquay’s Killacourt
Candidates announced for Newquay by-election
Hotel Victoria in Newquay to reopen with new name
Gas network upgrades planned for Newquay
Newquay Town Council reports vandalism at public facilities
New hedgehog hospital opens near Newquay after community funding drive
Newquay boxer Brad Pauls eyes international middleweight title after win
Plans submitted to replace Crantock Surf Life Saving Club hut
Newquay charity reuses 10,000 wetsuits to cut waste and support young people
Legal graffiti wall project to support artists and help cut vandalism
Newquay surf shop owner retires after nearly 57 years
Atlantic Hotel in Newquay bought by Cornwall Hotel Collection
Oscar Wilde classic brought to life in Newquay
Paws on the Beach returns to Watergate Bay this April
Major milestone reached in build of new high street and supermarket at Nansledan
Newquay AFC held as town sides battle for points across football, rugby and hockey