RNLI Lifeguard Rescues Swimmer from Rip Current at Fistral Beach

As Boardmasters Festival begins, RNLI lifeguards in Newquay are urging beachgoers to stay vigilant after a swimmer was pulled from the water in what is being described as a ‘life saved’ rescue.

Sudden Rip Current Sparks Life-Threatening Emergency

On Sunday 3rd August, a powerful rip current formed suddenly at Fistral Beach, dragging a swimmer out to sea near the edge of the red and yellow flagged area. RNLI Lifeguard Niamh McCabe reacted immediately, paddling out on a rescue board to reach the struggling casualty.

By the time Niamh arrived, the swimmer was being intermittently submerged and calling for help. She brought them safely back to shore, where the team carried out casualty care. According to the RNLI, the incident qualifies as a ‘life saved’, meaning the person would likely have drowned without the lifeguard’s intervention.

Lifeguards Prepare for Boardmasters Crowds

RNLI Lifeguard Supervisor Andy Thomas warned how quickly beach conditions can change:

“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.”

As tens of thousands head to Newquay this week for Boardmasters Festival, lifeguards are ramping up their coverage.

“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.”

RNLI’s Key Safety Advice

The RNLI is reminding people to follow these safety tips when at the beach:

• Always choose a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags.

• If you get into trouble in the water, remember to Float to Live:

  • Tilt your head back, with your ears submerged

  • Relax and try to breathe normally

  • Move your hands and feet to help you stay afloat

  • It’s fine if your legs sink — we all float differently

  • Practise floating in a local pool if you can

• If you see someone else in difficulty:

  • Call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard

  • Tell the person to relax and float on their back

  • Throw something buoyant to help them stay afloat

More safety advice is available at RNLI.org/Float.