Littlehampton RNLI was tasked by HM Coastguard to launch its Renee Sherman lifeboat at 7.20pm following a report from Sussex Police that a male swimmer had been seen in the sea approximately 60 metres offshore from Rock Gardens, Bognor Regis.
Working with the Coastguard, Sussex Police and the police helicopter, Littlehampton RNLI’s crew found the swimmer – who was swimming strongly and was in no danger. He boarded the lifeboat and was taken to the shore to be checked over by paramedics.
Littlehampton RNLI was stood down and returned to the lifeboat station in Littlehampton Harbour at 8.25pm.
If you are planning a sea swim, always remember to be prepared:
Check the weather and tides, choose your spot, go with a buddy, have the right equipment
If in doubt, don’t go out. No matter how much preparation you do, or how experienced you are, if a swim doesn’t feel right there is no shame in getting out of the water straight away, or not entering
Make sure you acclimatise to avoid cold water shock
Be seen. Wear a bright coloured swim hat and take a tow float
Stay within your depths
Float to live
Call 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard in an emergency.
Michael Kelly, Deputy Launching Authority at Littlehampton RNLI Lifeboat Station, said: ‘Sea swimming is a great way to keep fit and healthy. But it is much more fun with someone else, and you can look out for each other. It’s also good to tell someone on shore where you are going and when you will be back. They’ll be able to call for help if you are overdue back.’
