RNLI beach lifeguards in Pembrokeshire were recently kept busy as thousands of people flocked to the Welsh coast to enjoy the sunshine.

That weekend (10–11 July), saw thousands of people headed to the Welsh coastline to enjoy soaring temperatures. 

The RNLI strongly advises those visiting the coast to choose a lifeguarded beach. The warm weekend saw lifeguards deal with multiple incidents due to the sheer volume of people at the beaches combined with offshore winds.

At Broad Haven beach, the lifeguards were advising people against taking inflatables in the sea due to the strong offshore wind. Lifeguard Tom Rogers carried out several water patrols to advise inflatable users to return to shore.

An inflatable paddleboard and kayaker drifted further and further out to sea. Little Haven RNLI lifeboat was already afloat and searching for a paddleboarder at Stack Rocks.

Lifeguard Harrison Goddard requested they approach the inflatables on their way back to station to offer assistance. The casualties were helped into the boat and returned safely to shore.

At Newgale, the combination of strong cross-offshore wind and waves created rip currents in various areas along the beach. RNLI lifeguards vigilantly patrolled to ensure people were aware of the risks, and to encourage people to swim between the flags.

Lifeguard Travis Christopher Barnes spotted a paddleboarder waving, and asked Lifeguard Finn Frost to paddle out to their assistance.

Finn made his way out on a rescue board, whilst Travis and Lifeguard Leon Delaney prepared the Rescue Water Craft for launch. On arrival, the lifeguards established that the gentleman on the paddleboard had dislocated his shoulder.

They attempted several ways of positioning the casualty on the rescue sled, however he was in too much pain. Lifeguard Finn suggested he should tow him the 400m back to shore using a rescue tube instead.

Finn successfully returned the casualty to shore, where lifeguards Jack Iles and Leon Delaney were waiting with the casualty care equipment. Lifeguards administered Entonox to assist with pain relief.

During the incident, Lifeguard Harry Nichols was patrolling on water’s edge and spotted a small child was struggling to return to shore on a bodyboard due to the offshore wind.

Harry headed straight in on a rescue board to bring the child back to shore. Lifeguard Travis also went in, to assist the child’s parents back to shore.

Noah Harvatt Lifeguard Supervisor for North Pembrokeshire said: ‘It’s great to see so many people getting out to enjoy the coast. We want everyone to have fun at the beach, but to do so safely.

‘When we fly the orange windsock, we strongly advise against taking inflatables of any kind in the water. Inflatables are very light and can quickly be blown out to sea. Whether it’s a paddleboard, kayak, dinghy or unicorn, they’re best saved for the swimming pool.

‘There were hundreds of people on our beaches at the weekend, which makes it impossible to speak to every individual. If you’re ever in doubt about whether it’s safe to take your inflatable in the sea, please approach a lifeguard. We’re always happy to help.

‘If you find yourself or see anyone else in difficulty, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.’

At Tenby Castle Beach, Lifeguard Willem Beck was on patrol when he spotted a child on a bodyboard drifting into a rip current. Willem made his way to the child and brought them back to shore.

Oliver Davies-Schofield Lead Lifeguard Supervisor for South Pembrokeshire said: ‘This weekend’s incidents across Pembrokeshire shows the importance of visiting a lifeguarded beach.

‘If you find yourself in difficulty in the water and you have something that floats like a surfboard, bodyboard or an inflatable, hang onto it.

‘Otherwise, Float to Live. Tilt your head back with your ears submerged, relax and try to breathe normally. Move your hands to help you stay afloat. Don’t worry if your legs sink, we all float differently. Spread your arms and legs to improve stability.

‘When you have the energy, wave one arm and shout for help. Our lifeguards are always on the lookout and will come to your assistance.’