Airlift rescue for drifting paddleboarders
Two paddleboarders who drifted out to sea off the coast of Jura were rescued by HM Coastguard and Islay RNLI.
Islay Lifeboat Station’s Severn class all-weather lifeboat The Helmut Schroder of Dunlossit II was launched at 2.10pm on Tuesday April 9, at the request of the Coastguard, following a 999 call reporting a paddleboarder in difficulty in strong offshore winds.
With five volunteer crew on board, the lifeboat made good speed around the south coast of Jura to reach the scene. It was discovered that two paddleboarders had drifted, but both had been able to get ashore to the small island of Eilean Bhride, off Corran Sands beach.
A Coastguard search and rescue helicopter was tasked to assist and quickly arrived at the scene, where the local onshore Coastguard team directed it to the paddleboarders’ location.
Both were then airlifted to safety on Jura’s shore, with Islay RNLI recovering their paddleboards before returning to Port Askaig, the boat being ready for service by 3.40pm.
Islay RNLI coxswain David MacLellan said: “The crew wish to thank all those involved in the rescue, and we are glad that in this case all ended well.
“This incident serves as a reminder to those enjoying the water this season to check local sea conditions, weather and tide times before taking to the sea.
“No-one expects to end up in trouble. Remember conditions can change quickly here on the West Coast.”
For those planning to paddleboard or enjoy other water sports, the RNLI has some handy tips to follow:
Always check the weather forecast and tide times. Don’t get caught out by the conditions. Avoid offshore winds because they will tire you quickly when trying to return to shore.
Always wear your leash and hold onto your board if you get into trouble. It will help you float.
Always carry a means of calling for help on your person. You must be able to reach it easily in an emergency. If it cannot be reached, it is no help. Consider taking a mobile phone in a waterproof pouch or have a personal locator beacon.
Always wear a personal flotation device. Make sure you are also wearing suitable clothing for the forecasted conditions.
Tell someone else where you are going and when you will be back. They can raise the alarm with the Coastguard by calling 999 or 112 if you are overdue.
Always try to paddle with someone else. They can raise the alarm in an emergency by calling 999 or 112 and asking for the Coastguard.