THE RNLI has issued a warning to Islanders about the potential dangers of rip currents after two swimmers were rescued in St Ouen’s Bay over the weekend.
A man and woman were rescued from the water close to the Barge Aground on Sunday evening after being caught in a rip, with two surfers helping an off-duty lifeguard to bring the couple to shore.
Although shocked, neither person was injured.
The incident happened after the RNLI lifeguard cover had finished for the day.
Lead lifeguard supervisor Jake Elms said: “RNLI lifeguards in Jersey have been very busy over the last week or so, the beaches have been busy and the lifeguards have been providing information and safety advice to beach-goers to ensure they have a safe day out.
“This week, with the big spring tides, we’ve experienced large tidal surges during the evening high tide – this is particularly dangerous at St Ouen’s where we have the sea wall.
“RNLI lifeguard patrols are from 10am to 6pm and we strongly advise people intending on using the water to visit a lifeguarded beach during these hours.”
RNLI lifeguards will be patrolling around 245 beaches across the British Isles this summer to offer advice on how to stay safe and they are also there to help anyone who gets into trouble.
For those who find themselves in trouble in the water, the charity is encouraging the use of the “Float to Live” technique to help ensure they stay safe, which includes the following messages:
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Tilt your head back with ears submerged.
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Relax and try to control your breathing.
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Use your hands to help you stay afloat.
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It’s OK if your legs sink, we all float differently.
Yesterday was Jersey’s hottest day of 2024 so far, however a significant drop in temperatures was forecast from today until Sunday, with highs of 21°C or 22°C across this period and the possibility of some rain on Sunday.
