Extensive Sea Search Prompted By Reports Of Struggling Paddleboarder Near Port Mulgrave

A search operation was launched off the Yorkshire Coast after reports of a paddleboarder in difficulty.

Emergency search operations took place along the coast near Port Mulgrave on Monday evening following serious concerns for a paddleboarder believed to be in distress.

Volunteer lifeboat crews from Staithes and Runswick were immediately dispatched to the scene, arriving on the water within thirteen minutes of the initial emergency alert.

HM Coastguard officials coordinated the urgent response at 5:26 pm on Monday the 27th of July. This request prompted the rapid launch of the station's Atlantic 85 lifeboat, known as the Sheila and Dennis Tongue III, with a full volunteer crew on board.

A comprehensive sweep of the surrounding waters and coastline was conducted, involving coordinated efforts from both sea-based crews and shore-based coastguard officers.

Local vessels operating in the nearby vicinity were also actively contacted by emergency coordinators. This communication formed part of a wider effort to establish the exact location and overall welfare of the individual reported to be in trouble.

Despite the thorough and immediate search efforts across the area, no paddleboarder was located by the rescue teams.

Emergency responders received no further information or sightings to suggest anyone remained in difficulty in the water, leading HM Coastguard to officially stand down the search operations at 5:52 pm.

The volunteer lifeboat crew returned safely to their station at 6:07 pm. Upon arrival, they prepared the vessel for its next potential launch before seamlessly continuing with their regularly scheduled Monday evening training exercise.

A spokesperson for Staithes and Runswick RNLI said:

"Thankfully, this incident did not result in anyone requiring assistance. However, it serves as a timely reminder that conditions at sea can change quickly and that anyone taking to the water should ensure they are properly prepared and equipped before setting out. Stand-up paddleboarding continues to grow in popularity, and taking a few simple safety precautions can make a significant difference should you find yourself in difficulty."

Crucial safety advice has now been reiterated for anyone planning to take a paddleboard out onto the open water.

Safety experts from the RNLI are strongly urging all participants to always wear a suitable buoyancy aid and to ensure they carry a mobile phone secured inside a waterproof pouch.

Using the correct type of leash for the specific paddling environment is also highlighted as a vital safety precaution to prevent separation from the board.

Paddlers are strongly advised to completely avoid offshore winds. These specific wind patterns possess the dangerous potential to quickly carry individuals far away from the safety of the shoreline.

Checking local weather forecasts and tide times before setting out is deemed completely essential, as marine conditions are known to change with extreme rapidity.

Understanding the specific area being paddled is also critical. Participants must identify local hazards, such as strong tidal currents, which can easily make paddling unexpectedly difficult and rapidly tiring.

Going out onto the water with a friend whenever possible is highly recommended, ensuring that immediate help remains nearby if an emergency situation suddenly arises.

Letting a trusted person ashore know the planned route and the expected return time is another fundamental recommendation for maintaining water safety.

Wearing suitable clothing tailored for the specific sea conditions and the time of year can significantly help prevent cold water shock and other exposure-related issues.

If a paddler falls into the water unexpectedly or becomes separated from their board, safety officials strongly recommend utilising the 'Float to Live' technique.

This specific life-saving method involves tilting the head back until the ears are completely submerged, consciously relaxing, and actively controlling breathing before attempting to call for help or swim to safety.

Volunteer crews at Staithes and Runswick RNLI remain on call twenty-four hours a day, three hundred and sixty-five days a year, constantly prepared to answer emergency calls and save lives at sea.