10 rip current rescues at one Cornish beach over the weekend
The RNLI has issued a warning about dangerous currents in the area
The RNLI has issued a warning after 10 rip current rescues were carried out at a beach in south east Cornwall over the weekend.
Local lifeguards assisted around 30 people all in rip-related incidents at Tregantle.
They say there are dangerous currents in the areas and are advising people not to swim at the beach at the moment.
The beach isn't currently lifeguarded during the week, only on weekends.
"Tregantle beach has very dangerous currents, at the moment and we advise against swimming at this beach.
"There are no lifeguards on this beach during the week, only at weekends currently.
"Over the weekend we have had over 10 rescues and assisted 20-30 people all in rip related incidents."
RNLI Lifeguards South East Cornwall
What is a rip current?
Rips are strong currents running out to sea, which can quickly drag people and debris away from the shallows of the shoreline and out to deeper water.
They tend to flow at 1–2mph but can reach 4–5mph, which is faster than an Olympic swimmer.
Rips are especially powerful in larger surf, but never underestimate the power of any water. They are also found around river mouths, estuaries and man-made structures like piers and groynes.
How to spot and avoid a rip current
Rip currents can be difficult to spot, but are sometimes identified by a channel of churning, choppy water on the sea's surface.
Even the most experienced beachgoers can be caught out by rips, so don’t be afraid to ask lifeguards for advice. They will show you how you can identify and avoid rips.
The best way to avoid rips is to choose a lifeguarded beach and always swim between the red and yellow flags, which have been marked based on where is safer to swim in the current conditions. This also helps you to be spotted more easily, should something go wrong.
If you do find yourself caught in a rip:
- Don’t try to swim against it or you’ll get exhausted.
- If you can stand, wade don’t swim.
- If you can, swim parallel to the shore until free of the rip and then head for shore.
- Always raise your hand and shout for help.
Source: RNLI