New beach demonstrations set up by RNLI lifeguards in south Cornwall

The demonstrations are running every Tuesday at Praa Sands, Porthleven, Gunwalloe and Kennack Sands. They aim to inform beach goers of key safety messages and the important work the charity carries out. Beach goers are informed of the demonstrations throughout the day and anyone is welcome to attend.

The demonstrations are carried out by Emily Theobald, a local lifeguard and include a beach safety talk and an explanation of the casualty care equipment the lifeguards use on the beach. This is then followed by a rescue demonstration with a running commentary explaining the process of the rescue and the equipment used as well as some information about how to get involved with lifeguarding such as the qualifications needed.

Leaflets are then made available to the attendees of the demonstrations with information about the RNLI’s #RespectTheWater campaign and specific sea safety advice such as kayaking.

Andy Thomas, RNLI lifeguard supervisor for the area, said:

‘This is a fantastic way to spread our key safety messages to beach goers in a friendly but informative way. These demonstrations have proved really popular and we hope to continue them throughout the summer holidays. Keep an eye on our Facebook page ‘RNLI South Cornwall Lifeguards’ for more information about when and where these demonstrations are taking place!

We encourage anyone on the beach to attend the demonstrations and to ask questions throughout. However, please feel free to come and ask the lifeguards on duty at the beach for advice at any time, even if the demonstrations aren’t running that day.’

Notes to Editor

• The beach demonstrations are running at the following beaches throughout the summer holidays: Praa Sands, Porthleven, Gunwalloe and Kennack Sands
• RNLI lifeguards patrol over 249 beaches around the UK and Channel Islands

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.