Paddleboarders in Trouble Prompt Lifeboat Launch in Falmouth

On Monday, 19th August 2024, the Falmouth Lifeboat Station received an urgent call for assistance after two paddleboarders found themselves in serious trouble within the Carrick Roads. The incident occurred shortly after 1:00 pm when a 999 call was made, alerting the Coastguard to the paddleboarders’ plight.

The Falmouth Coastguard, recognising the severity of the situation, quickly paged the volunteer crew of the Falmouth Lifeboat. At precisely 1:23 pm, the crew was requested to deploy their inshore lifeboat, the Atlantic 85 ‘Robina Nixon Chard,’ to the scene. The lifeboat was launched just seven minutes later, at 1:30 pm, with the crew determined to reach the paddleboarders as swiftly as possible.

Paddleboarders Reach Safety

Despite the challenging conditions, including southerly winds of force 5/6, the paddleboarders managed to reach the shore safely by the time the lifeboat arrived on the scene. The lifeboat crew, arriving within 15 minutes of launch, confirmed that both individuals were safe and no longer in need of assistance.

After verifying that the situation was under control, the Coastguard released the lifeboat from service. The ‘Robina Nixon Chard’ then made its way back to the station, returning at 2:07 pm.

Safety Reminders from the RNLI

The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of proper preparation when engaging in water activities. The RNLI advises all those venturing out on the water to always check weather conditions, wear a buoyancy aid or lifejacket, inform someone of their plans, and carry a means of communication.

For more safety tips, visit the RNLI website at RNLI Safety Advice.

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