RNLI offers safety advice as lifeguard patrols end across the North West

This Sunday (6 September 2026) marks the end of the peak season for RNLI lifeguards in the North West. The charity is offering lifesaving safety advice to people visiting the coast during the winter months.

In Merseyside, RNLI lifeguards will no longer be patrolling Southport, Ainsdale or Formby beaches after Sunday 6 September. Crosby Beach remains patrolled 365 days a year.

In the Wirral area of Merseyside, West Kirby, Moreton, Harrison Drive, The Plateaux and New Brighton will continue to be patrolled on weekends only until 27 September.

Chris Cousens, RNLI Water Safety Lead for Wales, said:

‘As the season finishes for RNLI lifeguards in Wales, we’re asking people to continue to take care and know how to stay safe at the coast.

‘Whenever you visit the beach, but especially if you visit a beach and enter the water with no lifeguard cover, it’s important you’re thinking about your safety. We always recommend going into the water with someone else, having someone else with you means they can help you or get help in the event of an emergency.

‘Take note of the safety signage at the entrance to the beach, which will warn of the local risks and hazards. If possible, speak to someone who knows the area who might be able to provide advice and explain any dangers.

‘Always check the weather conditions and tide times and consider your capabilities. If in doubt – it is better to stay out of the water.

‘Carry a means of contact such as a mobile phone, if you get into trouble or see anyone else in difficulty, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.

‘We’re aware that cold water dipping into the autumn and winter is becoming increasingly popular. We advise not doing this alone – it’s safer and more fun to go with someone or a group.

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

The autumn and winter months tend to bring harsher conditions that can pose greater risk to those visiting the beach. Bigger waves and stronger winds increase the likelihood and strength of rip currents.

Should you find yourself stuck in a rip current:

• Don’t try to swim against it or you’ll get exhausted
• If you can stand, wade don’t swim
• If you can, swim parallel to the shore until free of the rip and then head for shore
• Always raise your hand and shout for help.

RNLI Media Contacts

For more information please contact Claire Fitzpatrick-Smith, Regional Communications Manager on [email protected] or 07977 728315, 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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For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, TikTok and YouTube. News releases, videos and photos are available on the News Centre.

Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries

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