RNLI Lifeguards Rescue 10 Swimmers from Flash Rip Current at Cornwall Beach

Recent rescues along the coasts of Devon and Cornwall have highlighted the dangers of sudden strong offshore winds and flash rip currents for water users. In Devon, ten paddleboarders were rescued after being caught in strong winds that made returning to shore impossible, with many clinging to rocks for safety. Meanwhile, at Perranporth beach in Cornwall, RNLI lifeguards rescued 10 swimmers swept out by a fast-forming flash rip current, a powerful and sudden hazard that can occur even in calm conditions. The RNLI advises swimmers to always swim between red and yellow flags and to float on their backs if caught in a rip current, while confident swimmers should swim parallel to the shore to escape the current. Lifeguards emphasize the importance of recognizing rip currents by their choppy water texture and recommend seeking lifeguard advice to avoid dangerous situations. These incidents underscore the critical need for vigilance, proper safety gear, and adherence to lifeguard guidance when enjoying coastal waters during the busy summer season.