Exmouth RNLI Inshore Lifeboat responds to stranded kitesurfer

At 15:04 hrs today Sunday 31 May 2020 Exmouth RNLI temporary Inshore Lifeboat D-755 Peggy D was launched following a report of a 25-year-old female kitesurfer in difficulties on Pole Sands, off Exmouth Seafront.

The RNLI Volunteer Crew were Head Launcher John Dinsdale, Helm Harry Griffin with Crew Scott Ranft and James Searle.

The kitesurfer, whose lines had become entangled, was uninjured and taken to safety by the crew who were equipped with personal protection equipment.

The lifeboat was back ready for service at 15:45 hrs today.

The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea and gives special safety advice for kitesurfers:

• Always kite with another person

• If you go alone, take a means of calling or signalling for help

• Never ride out further than you can swim back

• Equipment failure does happen - be prepared

• Check the conditions and tides. Don't go out in conditions you can't handle

• Check what sizes of kites other riders are using - if you do not have the correct size, do not go out

• Do not ask or allow someone who is not familiar with kites to help you launch or land - give them some training on how to do it

• Always tell someone you are going out and when you will be back

Follow the safety advice from the governing body for kitesurfing, the BKSA, and other expert organisations. More information can be found here.