A 4-year old boy was pulled from the sea by an RNLI lifeguard after being knocked down by a wave on Aberystwyth beach earlier today (Friday 21 August).
The boy was playing in the shallow water when he was dragged out of his depth by a strong undertow current.
Gareth Lathwood, RNLI lifeguard, comments:
‘I noticed the boy when he was first hit by a wave. He disappeared under water and was struggling. I entered the sea and carried him back to the beach.’
Ceredigion County Council currently funds the lifeguards, while the extensive training and equipment needed is provided by the RNLI. It costs the charity an average of £1,000 each year to train and equip each lifeguard.
Beaches in Ceredigion currently being patrolled by the charity’s lifeguards include Aberporth, Tresaith, Llangrannog, New Quay, Aberystwyth North and South, Clarach and Borth. Patrols will finish Sunday 6th September.
To find your nearest lifeguarded beach visit www.goodbeachguide.co.uk The RNLI’s guide to beach safety, On The Beach, is packed full of top tips on how to stay safe at the beach. It is available free-of-charge be emailing [email protected] or calling 0800 328 0600.
For more beach safety information, visit www.rnli.org.uk/beachsafety.
Photograph: RNLI lifeguard, Gareth Lathwood
