RNLI issues Easter Bank Holiday safety advice

RNLI lifeguards have now returned to 55 beaches around the coast of the UK and the Channel Islands, ready to rescue those in need in their 25^th anniversary year.

To stay safe over the long weekend, the RNLI is encouraging people to:

• Choose a lifeguarded beach where possible.
• Swim between the red and yellow flags.
• If you get into trouble in the water, Float to Live.

If you see someone else in trouble at the coast, remember Phone, Float, Throw:

• Phone 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard to get help
• Tell the struggling person to Float to Live
• Throw them something that floats, such as a life ring

Kate Eardley, RNLI Head of Global Drowning Prevention, said: ‘We highly recommend if you visit the coast, you choose a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags as this is the area most closely monitored.

‘If you are taking kayaks or paddleboards on the water, be aware of offshore winds and wear appropriate kit, including a buoyancy aid, wetsuit and carry a mobile phone in a waterproof pouch. If you plan to enter the water, acclimatise slowly to reduce the effect of cold water shock.

‘If you get into trouble in the water, Float to Live. Tilt your head back with ears submerged and try to relax and control your breathing. Don’t worry if your legs sink, we all float differently. Use your hands to help you stay afloat and then call for help or swim to safety if you can.

‘With Storm Dave forecast to bring gale force winds in parts of northern UK, if your area is affected, we urge you to stay a safe distance from wet and slippery edges, let someone know where you are going and carry a means of calling for help.

‘Please share these messages with your family and friends, we want everyone to enjoy our beautiful coast, whilst staying safe.’

To find your nearest lifeguarded beach, visit: https://rnli.org/find-my-nearest/lifeguarded-beaches

Notes to editors

· Interviews with RNLI water safety spokespeople are available upon request.

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For more information please telephone Ben Williets, RNLI Press Officer on 01202 641450 or [email protected] or contact the RNLI Press Office on 01202 336789.

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,700 lives.

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Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.