RNLI lifeguards in Dorset keep beaches safe as warm weather continues
RNLI lifeguard teams at Weymouth and West Dorset have been working hard to prevent and respond to incidents as the warm weather and start of the summer holidays bring the crowds to the coast.
Last Sunday (28 July) was particularly busy for the RNLI lifeguards in Weymouth and West Dorset lifeguards as they assisted around thirteen people safely back to shore, most of whom were in danger due to using inflatables. Although inflatables are popular beach items in the summer months, they are normally designed for pools rather than sea conditions. If you do use them at the beach, make sure that you remain close to the shore and that children are closely supervised. Never use inflatables when the orange windsock is flying or when the wind is blowing offshore as these conditions could drag them out to sea.
On the same day, lifeguards also rescued two girls who were trying to swim back after falling from a kayak. If you plan on using a sea kayak or stand up paddleboard, make sure that you wear a lifejacket and carry a means of calling for help in case you get into difficulty in the water.
The region is also busy this week (27 July – 3 August) with Lifeboat Weeks running in both Lyme Regis and Weymouth. These annual fundraising weeks offer a range of fun events for all the family, making them popular with locals and tourists alike.
Dominik Fajkiel, RNLI Lifeguard Supervisor in Weymouth and West Dorset, said:
‘Our lifeguards have been busy keeping people safe around the coast and with the warm weather set to continue this weekend, we advise those who are planning a trip to the beach to head to a lifeguarded one. Lifeguarded beaches provide much greater safety for general beach users, swimmers and water sports enthusiasts. The safest place for swimmers and bodyboarders is between the red and yellow flags as this area is most closely monitored by the lifeguards.’
Notes to editors
- Please find attached pictures of the RNLI lifeguard teams at Weymouth and Lyme Regis. Credit RNLI/Dominik Fajkiel.
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