Incredible bravery! 🌊 On August 30th, off-duty lifesavers Jake Rogers and Euan Buick were catching waves in Pembrokeshire after their shift, when they spotted trouble at sea. A group of 15 men had waded into a red-flagged area at Whitesands Beach, notorious for its dangerous rip currents.
With the sea raging and three men being dragged out by the current, Jake and Euan sprang into action. Euan surfed to the aid of two men struggling amidst towering waves, helping them stay afloat with his surfboard. Jake quickly joined, but their shortboards weren’t enough to stop the panic. It took sheer determination and 10 intense minutes, but Euan got the first man safely to shore, where fellow lifeguards Matthew Brown and Finn Iles were ready to assist.
Meanwhile, more friends tried re-entering the water to help, but Matthew and Finn ensured they stayed safe on land, explaining that the best help was already out there. Returning to the surf, Euan and Jake managed to bring back the second casualty through grit and teamwork.
But the drama wasn’t over. A third man had climbed onto dangerous rocks, battered by waves and growing darkness. Euan and Jake daringly managed a tricky rescue, with Jake bravely abandoning his board to help the stranded man. A daring leap into the water together, and the lifeguards battled to tow him through the rip.
In the end, their relentless efforts paid off. All three men were brought ashore, shaken and injured, but alive. The heroes assessed their conditions, offering vital advice and support even when completely exhausted themselves.
Stuart Penfold, North Pembrokeshire’s lead lifeguard supervisor, praised their extreme courage and skill. He warned of the dangers posed by the upcoming autumn beach conditions, urging everyone to always have a rescue plan. Remember, if you spot someone in trouble at sea, stay safe and call 999 or 112 for the coastguard.
A huge shoutout to Jake, Euan, Matthew, and Finn for showing us what true heroism looks like. 🏆🏄♂️ Stay safe, folks, and thanks to our incredible RNLI lifeguards! 👏