Heroic Lifeguards Save Woman Swept Out to Sea at Mawgan Porth

Photo: Theresa Morokutti – Credit:RNLI/Nathan_Wil

RNLI lifeguards at Mawgan Porth beach demonstrated remarkable bravery and quick response in rescuing a female bodyboarder who was dragged out to sea by a strong current.

Swift Response to Distress Call

The incident occurred just as the lifeguards were arriving at the beach at 9:50 am. Members of the public alerted them that a bodyboarder was in danger. Without hesitation, Theresa Morokutti and Harry Barea sprang into action, despite being fully clothed. The urgency of the situation did not allow them time to change into their rescue gear.

Challenging Conditions Overcome

Theresa and Harry each paddled over 300 metres around the corner of the headland on rescue boards to reach the distressed woman. The current, generated by the river meeting the sea on the beach, had pulled her out and around the headland, making the rescue particularly challenging. However, their skill and determination ensured a successful retrieval, and they safely brought her back to shore.

A Word from the Lead Lifeguard Supervisor

Lewis Timson, RNLI Lead Lifeguard Supervisor for Newquay, praised the lifeguards’ efforts. “Theresa and Harry did a great job in rescuing a female bodyboarder who had been dragged into the path of the river which is a prominent feature on the left-hand side of Mawgan Porth beach and can create a significant current running out to sea,” he said.

The rescued bodyboarder expressed immense gratitude for their help, acknowledging the difficulty she would have faced in reaching the shore alone due to the strength of the current.

Safety Reminders for Beachgoers

Timson also used the opportunity to remind the public of important safety measures. “Thankfully, lifeguards were just arriving to start their shift, but the incident does serve as a reminder to people who are going to the coast that beaches are lifeguarded from 10 am to 6 pm. The RNLI strongly advise those who are planning on going into the water, to do so between these times, at a lifeguarded beach and that if swimming or bodyboarding to do so between the red and yellow flags.”

This incident highlights the vital role lifeguards play in ensuring beach safety and the importance of adhering to safety guidelines to prevent such dangerous situations.

Photo: Harry Barea – Credit:RNLI