RNLI lifeguards at Porthtowan beach rescued a mother and daughter who had got into difficulty in a rip current at the weekend.

A member of the public came rushing over to the truck and notified lifeguards who had already noticed the casualties in trouble at around 6pm on Sunday, June 23.

RNLI lifeguard Louie Ingram paddled out approximately 30 metres and arrived on the scene to see both the mother and daughter in the float to live position, following the RNLI advice and was then able to bring them safely back to shore.

Martyn Ward, RNLI Lifeguard Supervisor for Perranporth said: ‘Our lifeguards did a great job in responding to a dangerous situation after two casualties were caught in a rip current just after 6pm.

‘What was great to hear though was that the casualties were in the Float to Live position when Louie arrived on the scene, having heard the advice previously from the RNLI.

"It meant that they were able to keep themselves afloat whilst conserving their energy and control their breathing. Whilst we hope no one does find themselves in difficulty, the mother and daughter did exactly the right thing and it is good to see our message is reaching people.’

The incident comes as the RNLI issue a safety warning as the weather continues to get hotter. With temperatures looking likely to hit the mid-twenties in the south west later this week, the coast is set to be extremely busy.

The RNLI is reminding people to visit a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags if you’re visiting the coast during this warm spell.

RNLI lifeguards are patrolling around 60 beaches in the south west this week and offer advice on how to stay safe and they are also there to help anyone who gets into trouble.  

RNLI advice is if you do get in trouble in the water, Float to Live:

Tilt your head back with ears submerged 

Relax and try to control your breathing 

Use your hands to help you stay afloat 

It's OK if your legs sink, we all float differently 

Visit RNLI.org/float2024 for more information.