Brave RNLI Lifeguard’s Quick Action Saves Swimmer in North Cornwall

Quick-Thinking Lifeguard Saves Woman from Dangerous Rip Current

In a daring rescue on the north coast of Cornwall, an RNLI lifeguard from Sandymouth beach saved a woman’s life after she got into difficulty while swimming near Duckpool Beach.

Emergency Response

On Thursday afternoon, 4th July, RNLI lifeguards were alerted by Falmouth Coastguard following a 999 call about a missing swimmer near Duckpool Beach, a non-lifeguarded beach located roughly 1km from Sandymouth beach in Bude. RNLI lifeguard Leon Cherrington-Jones immediately responded to the call, running 1.5km along the beach to reach the water’s edge at Duckpool Beach where he was met by the family of the swimmer who pointed out her location.

The Rescue Operation

Leon quickly swam out with a rescue tube and found the woman floating on her back between the rocks. Using the rescue tube, he was able to retrieve her and guide her past the rocky area back to the shore. With the assistance of a family member, Leon performed a medical assessment on the beach.

Post-Rescue Assessment

The swimmer was then transferred to the car park where the Bude Coastguard team conducted their own medical evaluation and advised her to visit minor injuries due to the amount of water she had swallowed. Additional RNLI lifeguards from Summerleaze and the Bude RNLI lifeboat crew were initially tasked to assist but were stood down once the casualty had been assessed.

Professionalism and Safety Measures

RNLI Lifeguard Supervisor Ross Hambley commended Leon for his swift and professional actions, stating, “Leon acted quickly and with great professionalism to rescue a swimmer caught in a dangerous rip current off Duckpool Beach. The swimmer’s use of the ‘FLOAT to live’ position undoubtedly helped her survive the ordeal.”

Ross Hambley further highlighted the importance of safety on the north Cornwall coastline, urging visitors to swim at lifeguarded beaches between the red and yellow flags. “This area is known for rip currents, and this incident serves as a reminder of the dangers. It is vital to swim in designated safe areas monitored by lifeguards who can react quickly if difficulties arise.”

A Reminder for Coastal Visitors

The incident underscores the critical role of RNLI lifeguards and the importance of beach safety. Visitors to the coast are reminded to always choose lifeguarded beaches and adhere to safety guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience by the sea.

Photo: RNLI lifeguard Leon Cherrington-Jones the lifeguard who performed the rescue – Photo credit: RNLI