A 10-year-old girl was spotted paddling 150 metres off the coast of an Anglesey beach without a life jacket on. RNLI volunteers found the young child on a "boogie board", by chance.
North Wales Live reports that concerned beachgoers were also heading out to help. But her parents were said to be "oblivious to it all", said the RNLI. In a statement on Facebook, RNLI's Moelfre crew said the incident unfolded after they had been called to other incidents nearby. For the latest news, subscribe to our newsletter here.
The crew said: "Twice [on Friday], the volunteers were tasked to launch the Inshore lifeboat 'Enfys 2' due to incidents that involved paddleboards and a kayak. The first launch request came at 10.31am after two paddleboarders appeared to struggle in the strong offshore wind.
"The second shout came at 2.38pm after reports one person onboard a kayak was seen waving their paddle to attract assistance, again due to the 27-knot offshore wind. On both occasions, the casualties were assisted ashore and given sea safety advice by the RNLI crew and the mobile coastguard team."
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They added: "After both shouts, the RNLI crew swept all the popular beaches from St Davids to Lligwy, advising several people on the water of the risks involved during any offshore wind. During the sweep on the first shout at Lligwy, the lifeboat crew came across a 10-year-old girl on her own on a boogie board approx. 150 meters offshore. No lifejacket.
"Concerned members of the public were starting to walk out to help her. Her parents were at the top of the beach, oblivious to it all. The RNLI crew escorted her back in and gave the parents stern safety advice.
"In the last few weeks, Moelfre lifeboat station has responded to several incidents involving inflatables, and most of the calls have been made during strong offshore winds. It may be sheltered close to shore due to shielding from cliffs, but the full force won't be felt until further offshore."
RNLI and HM Coastguard tips on how to be 'beach safe.'
- Have a plan - check the weather forecast and tide times and read local hazard signage
- Keep a close eye on your family - on the beach and in the water
- Don't allow your family to swim alone
- Don't use inflatables
- If you fall into the water unexpectedly, FLOAT TO LIVE. Fight your instinct to thrash around, lean back, extend your arms and legs, and float
- In an emergency, dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.
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