Margate RNLI and Coastguard rescue person from harbour and come to aid of paddleboarders blown offshore

Rescue services at the Stone Pier, Margate Photo Frank Leppard

Margate Coastguard Rescue Team and RNLI rescued a person from the water by the Stone Pier this afternoon (August 2).

The crew was tasked to a report that the swimmer had been recovered from the sea at the harbour arm.

Three Cascare-trained crew members also responded with first aid equipment. The swimmer was found by the lifeboat crew and coastguard officers and after an initial assessment handed into the care of South East Coast Ambulance Service.

Photo Frank Leppard

Just prior to the incident Margate RNLI had been called to a report of paddleboarders being blown offshore.

UK Coastguard received information around 3pm that two people on a paddleboard were being swept out to sea by strong offshore winds off Joss Bay, A RNLI lifeguard from Joss Bay was proceeding to assist on a rescue board.

Margate RNLI’s D class inshore lifeboat was tasked and once on scene commenced a search of the area, quickly finding the lifeguard in company with the casualty craft and two male occupants around one and a half miles off Kingsgate Bay.

All three were taken on board the lifeboat along with the paddleboard and rescue board and landed at Kingsgate Bay. The welfare of the two casualties was assessed, both being safe and well and after the lifeguard was transferred back to Joss Bay the lifeboat returned to station.

Christian Wright, Deputy Launching Authority, Margate RNLI said: “People using small craft often underestimate how quickly they can be blown out to sea with fresh offshore winds and adverse tides. With just their hands or short paddles they will soon be in serious difficulties and fortunately on this occasion their plight was seen from shore.

“We urge people to only use lifeguarded beaches and seek advice from the lifeguards who will have specialist local knowledge. Being able to summon assistance is also essential and paddleboarders are advised to carry a mobile phone in a waterproof bag – it could save your life.”

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