Hundreds of kids make a splash at Swim Safe in Bude
Hundreds of children have been taking part in Swim Safe, a free programme of outdoor swimming and safety lessons, at Bude this summer.
The programme, which is delivered in partnership between the ASA (Amateur Swimming Association) and the RNLI charity (Royal National Lifeboat Institution), teaches children between the ages of 7-14 how to stay safe in open water.
Now in its fourth year, the sessions take place at Bude Sea Pool and Summerleaze beach on Tuesdays- Thursdays until 25 August.
Bill Williams, Site Coordinator for Swim Safe at Bude, says:
‘Children have been having a great time at the Swim Safe sessions this year. The programme teaches some really important life skills, such as techniques for swimming in open water and how to call for help if you get into trouble at the beach.
‘The sessions are practical, educational and fun which is why we have so many children taking part each year. Spaces for the last two weeks are filling up quickly, so I would encourage people to sign up in advance to avoid missing out.’
Since the programme started in 2013, more than 4,500 children have been taught how to stay safe in open water. Each session includes a land-based safety lesson with a lifeguard, followed by in-water tuition with a swimming teacher. Wetsuits, swimming hats and a free goody bag with t-shirt are all provided.
Parents can book their children onto a Swim Safe session in advance at www.Swimming.org/SwimSafe or simply come along on the day.
Ends
For more information please contact Chlӧe Smith, RNLI Press Officer on [email protected] or call 07920 818807 or Emma Haines, RNLI PR Manager on [email protected] or call 07786 668847.
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Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI charity 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 146,000 lives.
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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.