RNLI Lifeguards end their summer season at Whitmore Bay (From Barry And District News)

RNLI Lifeguards end their summer season at Whitmore Bay

9:00am Sunday 16th September 2012 in News

WHITMORE Bay RNLI lifeguards were kept busy over their final weekend on the Island beach, before the charity's seasonal safety service ended on Sunday.

The lifeguards, who have been providing a safety service on Whitmore Bay since Easter, helped two teenage girls in a dinghy at 12.30pm last Saturday (September 8).

The girls were spotted paddling out on the inflatable towards Friar's Point. An RNLI lifeguard paddled out on his rescue board to advise the girls they were too far out and should return to shore, before towing them safely back. Both girls were well and no further treatment was required.

On Sunday, the lifeguards were approached by a waitress from a nearby cafe after an elderly man was found unresponsive. The 90-year-old was placed in the recovery position and assessed by the first aid trained lifeguards.

As he had very low blood pressure and was still unresponsive, an ambulance was immediately called. The lifeguards made the gentleman as comfortable as possible until he was taken to hospital by ambulance.

It has been a busy and successful summer season on Vale beaches for the RNLI lifeguards.

Rhys Hughes, RNLI Lifeguard supervisor, said: "Even though the lifeguards have finished on the county's beaches for the summer season, we ask the public to keep in mind some vital safety tips as they continue to enjoy the beaches over the winter.

"Check tidal times before enjoying the county's coastline this winter; and if you find yourself or see others in trouble, remember to dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard so that the volunteer lifeboat crew and Coastguard teams can come to your assistance."