Exmouth kitesurfers rescued

Lifeguards assist two in space of 30 minutes

When the wind picks up, the kitesurfer take to the waves and skies. Last Sunday, it all went wrong for two people in separate incidents off Exmouth.

Lifeguards on Exmouth beach, who'd only been back at their base for a few days, were at the end of their shift when they spotted one kitesurfer struggling in the conditions, not long after they'd already helped another one.
 
Having already assisted a kitesurfer in difficulty at 6pm, and as they were packing up for the day they spotted another in distress just 25 minutes later.  The young woman's kite was down was being pushed rapidly towards Maer Rocks by strong westerly wind and current.
 
Lifeguard Dom Brown immediately launched the rescue watercraft (RWC) and proceeded to the scene, where the kitesurfer was struggling to stay afloat and could not release herself from her equipment. Mr Brown threw her a floatation device and returned to pick up lifeguard Jake Butt to assist as crew on the RWC.
 
Mr Butt, himself a keen kitesurfer, went into the water and released the kitesurfer from her equipment, getting her safely back to shore and recovering her equipment.
 
Henry Irvine, leadlLifeguard supervisor in East Devon, said: "Large numbers of kitesurfers have been using Exmouth recently and we've had numerous rescues, as well as multiple near misses. If you’re thinking of going kitesurfing please ensure you keep well clear of other water users while out kitesurfing, and when setting up and packing down on the beach please do this well away from other beach users such as families.
 
"Never go out alone, take a means of calling or signalling for help, know your own abilities and equip yourself with the skills to self-rescue should this be required. Exmouth seafront is not a good location for beginners due to the strong currents and obstructions."