RNLI Lifeguards Rescue Two Young Girls Swept 300 Metres Out to Sea at Formby Beach

RNLI lifeguards leapt into action to rescue two young girls who were swept approximately 300 metres out to sea on an inflatable at Formby beach.

The incident happened at around 2.20pm on Sunday, 12 July, as strong offshore winds carried the inflatable away from the shore.

Formby RNLI lifeguard Grace Jones was patrolling the water’s edge alongside Seasonal Lifeguard Supervisor Jonathon Kitching, who was helping the team manage the beach’s busy visitor numbers, when they spotted the two girls in difficulty.

Both children, who were unable to swim, panicked and abandoned the inflatable before entering the water.

Grace immediately entered the sea with a rescue board and made her way towards the girls, who were around 300 metres offshore.

When she reached them, the children were being supported by a relative who was struggling to bring them back to the beach.

Grace helped both girls onto the rescue board and paddled them safely towards the shore. Their relative, who was a confident swimmer, was able to return independently.

RNLI lifeguard Violet Costello also entered the water to assist Grace and the children as they reached the shallows.

Once back on the beach, Grace and Violet checked both girls over before the lifeguard team returned to normal operations.

After the rescue, Grace said:

‘We were really glad to spot the girls with enough time to bring them safely back to shore.

‘With the weather still being hot, beach numbers have risen a great deal with lots of visitors coming to the coast.

‘If you are planning on going to the beach, always visit a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags. This is the area of the beach that our lifeguards are actively patrolling and can respond if you do get into difficulty.’

Seasonal Lifeguard Supervisor Jonathon Kitching, who was present during the rescue, said:

‘It was a really successful rescue due to the quick action and response from the team. Both Grace and Violet were excellent and performed a great rescue, returning both casualties safely back to shore.

‘Offshore winds can blow you out to sea. During these conditions we fly our orange windsock that advises against the use of inflatables such as stand-up paddleboards as they can very easily be swept away from the shore into deeper waters and away from the safety of the beach.’

The RNLI is reminding people who find themselves in trouble in the water to follow its Float to Live advice:

• Tilt your head back with your ears submerged.
• Relax and try to breathe normally.
• Move your hands and legs to help you stay afloat.
• Do not worry if your legs sink, as everyone floats differently.
• Once your breathing is under control, call for help or swim to safety.

Anyone who sees somebody in difficulty in the water should call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

To find your nearest lifeguarded beach visit the website.