News
Unconscious-rider rescued by RNLI
Yesterday, November 3rd - RNLI Lifeguard Supervisor Martyn Ward and RNLI Lifeguard Deshlo Matthews successfully rescued an unconscious kitesurfer just off Perranporth beach in Cornwall.
When arriving on the scene they found the rider being held above the water by Sean Jarvis from St Agnes. Martyn found the quick release catch and managed to get the kite clear so they could assess the situation fully. The casualty was struggling to breath, and in waist depth water which was surging around them. It was essential that they got him onto the beach where they could give him oxygen therapy and CPR if needed.
After bringing the victim to shore he was thankfully revived before CPR was needed. Martyn and Deshko kept him warm and stable until the Coastguard helicopter arrived where he was airlifted to Treliske hospital.
Martyn Ward, RNLI Lifeguard Supervisor gave an account on what had happened:
"Myself and Deshko Matthews were just packing down the lifeguard unit on Perranporth for the winter when we received the call from the Coastguard, he was very lucky that we were around and carrying the appropriate first aid equipment so that he could get immediate treatment for his injuries. Conditions were pretty rough, with a force 6 wind blowing."
"Kite surfing is an extreme sport and participants are looking for extreme conditions. However, water users should take into consideration that the RNLI lifeguards have now finished their patrols on all beaches across the south west, they should only go in conditions which are suitable for their ability and its always better to go with a friend or have someone looking out for you on the beach. If you spot anyone in difficulty you should dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard."
Click here to learn more about the RNLI and their SeriousFun! Campaign and to receive your free DVD
www.rnli.org.uk
When arriving on the scene they found the rider being held above the water by Sean Jarvis from St Agnes. Martyn found the quick release catch and managed to get the kite clear so they could assess the situation fully. The casualty was struggling to breath, and in waist depth water which was surging around them. It was essential that they got him onto the beach where they could give him oxygen therapy and CPR if needed.
After bringing the victim to shore he was thankfully revived before CPR was needed. Martyn and Deshko kept him warm and stable until the Coastguard helicopter arrived where he was airlifted to Treliske hospital.
Martyn Ward, RNLI Lifeguard Supervisor gave an account on what had happened:
"Myself and Deshko Matthews were just packing down the lifeguard unit on Perranporth for the winter when we received the call from the Coastguard, he was very lucky that we were around and carrying the appropriate first aid equipment so that he could get immediate treatment for his injuries. Conditions were pretty rough, with a force 6 wind blowing."
"Kite surfing is an extreme sport and participants are looking for extreme conditions. However, water users should take into consideration that the RNLI lifeguards have now finished their patrols on all beaches across the south west, they should only go in conditions which are suitable for their ability and its always better to go with a friend or have someone looking out for you on the beach. If you spot anyone in difficulty you should dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard."
Click here to learn more about the RNLI and their SeriousFun! Campaign and to receive your free DVDwww.rnli.org.uk