RNLI lifeguards rescue swimmer swept into rip current at Co Antrim beach

Senior RNLI Lifeguard Annie Jagoe

A swimmer was rescued from a dangerous rip current on the Antrim coast after getting into difficulty outside the designated bathing area, prompting a rapid emergency response from RNLI lifeguards, the Coastguard and the ambulance service.

The incident happened at around 5pm on Monday, 7 July at Portrush West Strand, when lifeguards were alerted by a member of the public to a woman struggling against strong surging waves beyond the red and yellow lifeguard flags.

The rescue serves as a timely reminder of the dangers posed by rip currents during the busy summer season, with the RNLI urging beachgoers to swim only between the flags and to know what to do if they become caught in fast-moving water.

Swift rescue after alarm raised

Senior Lifeguard Annie Jagoe was first to enter the water, taking a rescue board to reach the casualty.

After reaching the woman, Annie manoeuvred her safely onto the rescue board while Senior Lifeguard Jack Devenney launched a rescue watercraft to assist.

Working together, the two lifeguards transferred the casualty onto the rescue watercraft sled before bringing her safely back to shore.

Once ashore, both lifeguards carried out casualty care. Although the swimmer had no obvious injuries, the Coastguard and ambulance service were called as a precaution.

RNLI issues rip current warning

Senior RNLI Lifeguard Jack Devenney

Following the rescue, Senior Lifeguard Jack Devenney reminded people that rip currents can affect even confident swimmers.

He said:

“Rip currents can be hard to spot, and you will struggle to swim against them, no matter how experienced a swimmer you are.

“If you are caught in one, don’t try to swim against it or you’ll get exhausted. If you can stand, wade, don’t swim. Swim parallel to the shore until free of the rip and then head for shore. Always raise your hand and shout for help.”

Float to Live advice could save your life

The RNLI is also encouraging anyone who finds themselves in trouble in the water to remember its “Float to Live” advice, particularly if they are not a strong swimmer.

The charity advises people to:

• 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 – everyone floats differently.

• Spread your arms and legs to improve stability.

The rescue highlights both the importance of swimming between the lifeguard flags and the vital role RNLI lifeguards play in keeping people safe on Northern Ireland’s beaches throughout the summer.

With warm weather continuing to attract visitors to the coast, beach users are being urged to follow lifeguard advice, stay within the designated bathing areas and know how to respond if they or someone else gets into difficulty in the water.