Applications open for RNLI lifeguards in South Devon

RNLI lifeguards are essential in supporting the charity to reduce the number of people who drown on our coasts, and to help keep people safe by providing essential local safety advice to the millions of holidaymakers who visit the beaches every summer.

RNLI lifeguards patrol over 240 beaches around the UK and Channel Islands, including Teignmouth, Dawlish and Exmouth* in South Devon. At the forefront of the RNLI’s lifesaving work, they saved 127 lives and helped 20,538 people in 2016. Successful applicants receive world-class training in search and rescue, lifesaving and casualty care techniques, as well as developing transferable skills.

Nigel Jones, Area Lifesaving Manager for East Devon says; ‘Working as a lifeguard has got to be one of the best jobs to have – you get to call the beach your office for a start! But far more importantly than that, you are there to make sure the public enjoy it in the safest possible way. With strong career prospects and leadership skills, for many it’s more than a summer job.

‘This is a demanding job requiring commitment, skill and a clear head. We’re looking for people with courage, determination and the ability to draw on their training and make the right decision if someone’s life is in danger. It is an incredibly rewarding role that involves strong communication skills, talking to members of the public about key coastal activity safety messages and raising awareness of coastal risks.

Applicants must be fit, healthy and strong swimmers who are confident in the water, the RNLI will be running beach lifeguard qualification courses in South Devon for those who pass the fitness tests.’

Recruitment is now open for lifeguards in south Devon, covering the beaches from Teignmouth, Dawlish, and Exmouth. Find out more contact Julian Smart, RNLI Lifeguard Supervisor on 07900 918147. To find out more about being a lifeguard, visit lifesavingjobs.rnli.org/become-a-lifeguard.

Notes to editors

• Stock images provided. Credit RNLI

• Interviews available on request

• *To find your nearest lifeguarded beach visit the RNLI website

RNLI media contacts

For more information, please contact Regional Media Manager Amy Caldwell on 07920 818807 or [email protected]

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.

Learn more about the RNLI

For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, X, 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.