RNLI issues safety warning after multiple rescues at County Down beach

RNLI Lifeguard Emmy Torrens

RNLI lifeguards were kept busy on Cranfield Beach, County Down, on Saturday (16 August) after warm weather and strong offshore winds led to a series of paddleboarders getting into difficulty.

Lifeguard Emmy Torrens was patrolling the beach when she spotted two paddleboarders around 300 metres out to sea, struggling to return against the offshore winds.

Both Emmy and fellow lifeguard John Irwin launched their rescue boards and successfully brought the pair safely back to shore.

Moments later, Emmy noticed another three paddleboarders, 200 metres from shore, who had fallen off their boards. She and John immediately returned to the water to assist.

One casualty was transferred onto a rescue board, while the others were supported back to the beach. Although exhausted, none of the group required medical treatment.

As the lifeguards returned, colleague Adam Mahon spotted yet another paddleboarder on the opposite side of the beach unable to make progress against the winds.

Using the all-terrain vehicle to reach the area quickly, Adam entered the sea with a rescue tube and brought the casualty safely back to shore. The paddleboarder, while shaken, did not require further care.

L-R : RNLI Lifeguards Adam Mahon and John Irwin

Reflecting on the day, RNLI lifeguard Adam Mahon said:

“We had a busy weekend with the team helping several people. At one stage, there were approximately 200 swimmers, 50 paddleboarders and approximately 35 personal watercrafts in the water.

“We would like to extend our thanks to Kilkeel Coastguard who provided support while our own lifeguards patrolled the busy beach until 7pm, an hour after they were due to finish their patrol on the beach.”

Adam also issued a reminder to beachgoers:

“We would encourage anyone planning a trip to the beach to be aware of the tides and wind before entering the sea. To know when the wind is offshore, keep an eye out for the orange windsock on lifeguarded beaches to see which way the wind is blowing.”

He further advised:

“If you plan on doing some stand-up paddleboarding, we advise you to wear a buoyancy aid that provides extra floatation in the water should you fall in, carry a mobile phone in a waterproof pouch to use in an emergency, and wear the correct leash to stay connected to your board if you get into trouble and need help to stay afloat.”

The RNLI continues to stress the importance of safety for paddleboarders and swimmers, especially during busy summer weekends when conditions can change rapidly.