Busy weekend for Whitmore Bay lifeguards

Friday, 18 July 2025 12:55

By Gareth Joy X @lookoutwales2

RNLI / Kevin Lake

The latest summer heatwave was also a very busy one for lifeguards based at Whitmore Bay.

25 people were rescued and ten missing children were found last weekend as beachgoers flocked to Barry Island.

As temperatures hit the early 30s, the large spring tides also created dangerous currents, particularly during the afternoon.

The RNLI lifeguards also dealt with a major first aid incident. Local coastguard rescue teams and police were also involved in a number of incidents - one of which saw six people being rescued.

The lifeboat charity says it's reminding the public about the importance of choosing a lifeguarded beach - with patrols being carried out at eight locations across the Vale of Glamorgan and Bridgend.

Matt Childs, the RNLI's lead lifeguard supervisor, said: "Last weekend, the conditions were great for people to enjoy the sunshine at the beach but also posed great risk to those going in the sea."

"The combination of wind and large spring tides created strong currents. We rescued many people from these currents over the weekend as well as a large number of people caught out by the offshore wind."

"This situation shows the importance of following our guidance. When we fly the orange windsock, it’s vitally important that inflatables are not taken in the sea. Inflatables are light and full of air and therefore very easily blown out to sea."

"If you’re unsure how to check for an offshore wind, look for the orange windsock at lifeguarded beaches. At non-lifeguarded beaches, look for any flags, if they’re visibly blowing towards the sea, do not take inflatables in the water."

"We position our flags in the safest areas of the beach. Remember to swim between the red and yellow flags and surf, kayak or bodyboard between the black and white flags."

"When the beaches are busy it’s especially hard to locate missing people and children. Please keep a close eye on your children at all times and organise a designated meeting spot in case you are separated."

"Always carry a means of calling for help, such as a phone in a waterproof pouch when going in the sea on a kayak, paddleboard or dinghy. If you find yourself or see anyone else in difficulty, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard."

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