RNLI lifeguards rescue 11 teenagers from flash rip current at Portrush East Strand

RNLI Lifeguards Oliver Knox, Cameron Leighton & Paul Richmond

RNLI lifeguards in Portrush have been praised for their swift actions after rescuing 11 teenagers who were swept out to sea by a powerful flash rip current at East Strand on Saturday, 9 August.

The incident unfolded within minutes when the sudden rip current developed between the black and white checkered flags. Eleven young swimmers and bodyboarders were rapidly pulled out of their depth.

RNLI lifeguards Paul Richmond and Cameron Leighton immediately launched into the sea with rescue boards, quickly assessing which casualties were in the greatest danger.

Paul and Cameron each placed one teenager onto their boards, with two more holding onto the sides, before paddling six casualties back to shore. They were met by fellow lifeguard Oliver Knox, who took the group into care while the pair returned to rescue the remaining five swimmers.

Cameron brought three casualties ashore while Paul escorted the final two back to safety.

Lifeguards urge public to choose lifeguarded beaches

Following the rescue, RNLI lifeguard Paul Richmond reminded the public of the importance of swimming between the flags:

“The flagged areas mark the safest spots to swim and most importantly are monitored by lifeguards. On Saturday, we were able to spot the danger quickly and act immediately. If you’re planning on visiting the coast this weekend, try to choose a lifeguarded beach. Remember where there are no flags, there are no lifeguards.”

Lisa McAuley, mother of one of the teenagers rescued, also expressed her gratitude:

“The swift response of the lifeguards has prevented serious injury or drowning. If the teenagers had not been swimming between the flags, it could’ve ended very differently. I would also like to thank the local surfers who stepped in – your boards became lifelines until help arrived.”

RNLI safety advice

The RNLI has issued safety advice for beachgoers and swimmers as warm weather continues across Northern Ireland.

To avoid being caught in a rip current:

• Always swim between the red and yellow flags on lifeguarded beaches.

• Wear a brightly coloured swimming cap.

• Swim with others, never alone.

If caught in a rip current:

• Don’t swim against it – you’ll exhaust yourself.

• If you can stand, wade rather than swim.

• Swim parallel to the shore until free of the current, then head for land.

• Always raise your hand and shout for help.

• If you see someone in difficulty, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.

‘Float to Live’ campaign

With more hot weather expected, the RNLI is also urging people to remember its life-saving advice: Float to Live.

Linda-Gene Byrne, RNLI Water Safety Lead, said:

“Most people instinctively thrash about or panic when in danger in water – but we’re urging people to ignore this instinct and remember to relax and float: Tilt your head back, relax and try to breathe normally. Move your hands and legs to help you stay afloat if you need to. It’s fine if your legs sink – we all float differently. By doing this, you have the chance to recover your breathing so you can then call for help or swim to safety.”

She added:

“Whether it’s an exhausted swimmer, someone who has been dragged out by a rip current, or someone who has fallen into the water and is suffering from the effects of cold-water shock, this single piece of advice could save their life.”

For more information on water safety, visit RNLI.org/Float.