Lifeguards patrolling at Tenby Castle Beach rescued 11 people in just one day - including three children from rip currents.

Lifeguards responded on rescue boards and safely returned all the casualties to shore on August 14.

On Friday 16 August, lifeguards patrolling at Newgale Beach rescued six people and aided a further six from rip currents.

On Tuesday 20 August, Newgale’s RWC (Rescue Water Craft) rescued a surfer in difficulty in a rip current.

The following day, a bodyboarder was rescued and a further four were assisted from rip currents by Newgale’s lifeguards.

That’s why RNLI beach lifeguards in Pembrokeshire are strongly advising people to choose a lifeguarded beach.

They are currently patrolling every day across eight beaches in Pembrokeshire. In the last few weeks, the beaches have been busier which has coincided with rougher sea conditions. Storm Lillian brought strong winds and big surf, meaning the conditions posed a heightened risk to beachgoers. The likelihood and strength of rip currents is heightened in these circumstances, which often forces lifeguards to red flag certain areas, or an entire beach.

Oliver Davies-Scourfield, Lead Lifeguard Supervisor for South Pembrokeshire said:

“If you see a red flag flying, we have deemed that area of the beach as unsafe and strongly advise against entering the water.

“If you find yourself caught in a rip current, don’t swim against it or you’ll get exhausted. If you can stand, then wade don’t swim. If you can, try to swim parallel to the shore until you’re free of the current, and then head back to shore. Always raise your hand and shout for help.

“If you’re ever unsure as to why we’ve red flagged the beach, please approach our lifeguards. We’re more than happy to offer guidance and direct you to a safer place to swim.’

“In Pembrokeshire the following beaches are currently being patrolled every day from 10am-6pm up until 1 September: Newport Sands, Poppit Sands, Whitesands, Newgale Central and South, Broad Haven, Freshwater West, Tenby North, Tenby Castle, Tenby South and Saundersfoot.Choose one of our lifeguarded beaches if you’re planning a dip.”

The RNLI’s Float to Live advice:

  • Tilt your head back with ears submerged
  • Relax and try to control your breathing
  • Use your hands to help you stay afloat
  • It's OK if your legs sink, we all float differently
  • Once you are through the initial shock, call for help or swim to safety if you can.