Lifeguards rescue unconscious surfer

RNLI swoops into action off Boscombe Beach

RNLI lifeguards who patrol Boscombe beach in Dorset, rescued an unconscious surfer from the water on Friday (17 July). The charity's lifeguards, who are trained as first responders, gave the woman first aid until the paramedics arrived and she was taken to Royal Bournemouth Hospital.

"The RNLI lifeguard team did a great job yesterday," said Barry Heathfield, RNLI Lifeguard Divisional Manager for Dorset. "The incident highlights the exceptional training the charity gives its lifeguards, as well as the importance of using a beach with lifeguards on duty.

"There is no doubt that having the lifeguards on scene, who were able to act immediately to rescue the girl from the water, and who are trained and have the equipment to be able to respond in emergency medical situations will have saved her life."

In 2008, RNLI lifeguards in the south west, responded to 8,424 incidents on the beach, aiding 9,802 people and saving 39 lives.