Two separate incidents of paddleboarders getting into difficulty have prompted an urgent water safety appeal by an Ayrshire lifeboat crew.
Troon lifeboat were called into action on Tuesday night along with a rescue chopper from Prestwick as they raced to four struggling paddleboarders.
The RNLI team were first called to the water at Prestwick at 5.35pm, with two paddleboarders in difficulty.
The crew prepared to launch both lifeboats from their harbourside station when they were told the paddleboarders in Prestwick had made it ashore.
Another call came in for another two paddleboarders in difficulty near Seamill, with a rescue chopper called to the scene.
But the crew were told to stand down with the paddleboarders making it to safety.
The incident has sparked an appeal for (Stand-Up) paddleboarders to be aware of the risks when out in the water.
Troon RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager, Jim Redmond, said: "We would advise people to be aware of the risks when on the water as even in good weather conditions can quickly change.
“As with any water based activity, always check the weather forecast and tide times before going out and always carry a means of calling for help.
“If you get into trouble or see someone else in trouble, call 999 and ask for the coastguard’."
Official RNLI advice for paddleboards includes the following:
- If you can, always go with a friend. It’s more fun, and they can help you if you get into difficulty.
- If you are going out alone, always tell someone where you're going and when you'll be back. Don't leave the house without a mobile phone or communication device.
- Check the weather forecast and tide times before you set out.
- If the water is too choppy, you might find it difficult, especially if you are a beginner. And be aware, the conditions can change quickly.
- Avoid offshore winds. They will quickly blow your paddleboard far out to sea, which can make it extremely tiring and difficult to paddle back to shore.
More advice can be found by visiting: https://rnli.org/safety/choose-your-activity/stand-up-paddle-boarding
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