Major rescue after surfers swept towards 'treacherous' rocks by flash-rip current in Cornwall
A woman had to be winched to safety after a group of five got into trouble at Porthcothan on Friday
Last updated 2nd Jun 2021
A warning has gone out after the rescue of a surfer, swept towards 'treacherous' rocks in north Cornwall.
A group of five were suddenly pulled out to sea in a flash-rip current at Porthcothan on Friday afternoon.
The RNLI says three managed to scramble onto some rocks, while another made it back to the beach.
However, Senior Lifeguard Keith Renders rushed to help one woman who was struggling in the crashing waves.
Keith was in the water on his rescue board when he spotted the group in trouble.
He managed to tow the casualty to the rocks while they waited for the inshore lifeboat from neighbouring Constantine.
Other support was quick to arrive from Padstow Coastguard and the Padstow all-weather lifeboat, however the rough conditions meant it was too dangerous to get close enough to evacuate the pair.
The pair were winched to safety by the HM Coastguard Rescue Helicopter 924 and the woman was flown to hospital for further treatment.
Keith said: "We urge anyone entering the water wanting to surf, to do so between the black and white flags.
"Rip currents can appear very suddenly and without warning, and it's important that in unpredictable weather conditions you stay between the flags where the lifeguards can see you and come to your assistance if needed".
Senior RNLI Lifeguard, Keith Renders
What should I do if I get into trouble on the coast?
Anyone planning a visit to the coast should remember and follow the RNLI safety advice:
- Have a plan - check the weather forecast, tide times and read local hazard signage
- Keep a close eye on your family - on the beach and in the water
- Do not allow your family to swim or surf alone
- Do not use inflatables
- If you fall into the water unexpectedly, FLOAT TO LIVE: Fight your instinct to thrash around, lean back, extend your arms and legs, and FLOAT
- In an emergency dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard