Paddleboarders rescued by lifeguards after getting into difficulty

The public is being warned of the dangers of changing conditions at the coast ahead of a weekend of warm weather.

Posted in

Fife

Two paddleboarders had to be helped by lifeguards after getting into difficulty at beaches in Fife.

The RNLI lifeguards entered the water at Burntisland beach and Leven beach over the weekend.

Both of the paddleboarders were helped back to safety.

The incidents have prompted a warning about how quickly conditions can change in coastal waters in warm weather and offshore winds.

With more warm weather forecast for the weekend, the public is being urged to stay safe.

RNLI lifeguards are patrolling eight beaches across Scotland RNLI

Paddleboarders are being encouraged to wear a leash or buoyancy aid.

Michael Avril, water safety lead for the RNLI in Scotland, said: “These incidents highlight how quickly conditions at the coast can change, particularly for paddleboarders and other water users in warm weather and offshore winds.

He adds: “We’re incredibly proud of the calm and professional actions of our lifeguards, whose vigilance and training helped prevent these situations from becoming more serious.

“We’re also reminding people to stay prepared. If you’re heading out on a paddleboard, wear a leash and buoyancy aid, carry a way to call for help, and check for offshore winds. In an emergency, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”

RNLI lifeguards are currently patrolling eight beaches across Scotland’s east coast – Coldingham Bay, Silver Sands (Aberdour), Burntisland, Leven, Elie, St Andrews East Sands, St Andrews West Sands and Broughty Ferry between 10am and 6pm.