Sidmouth Independent Lifeboat Responds to Windsurfer Concern

Date: 11.04.26

Time paged: 12:47

Callout #2

Sidmouth Independent Lifeboat was tasked to assist the coastguard at Sidmouth beach following reports of a windsurfer in difficulty.

The crew prepared to launch after receiving the call for assistance, with concerns raised about the safety of someone on the water.

However, once coastguard personnel arrived on scene, they located a group of wind foilers who had successfully made it back to the beach. All individuals were confirmed to be safe and well, with no injuries reported.

As a result, the Sidmouth Independent Lifeboat was stood down and did not need to launch.

The incident has been recorded as a false alarm with good intent – a situation where genuine concern prompts an emergency call, but assistance ultimately proves unnecessary.

The coastguard and lifeboat service remind the public that if you see someone in trouble along the coast or at sea, you should always call 999 and ask for the coastguard. It is always better to raise the alarm when concerned about someone’s safety.

Photo: Sidmouth Lifeboat, for illustrative purposes only