
RNLI issue safety warning ahead of Bank Holiday weekend
Ahead of what is expected to be one of the busiest weekend of the year (Friday 23 to Monday 26 August) RNLI lifeguards in the south west are issuing a safety warning reminding people of how to enjoy their time on the coast safely.
The region will experience large spring tides, which mean there will be extremely high tides in the morning and evenings, increasing water movement and the likelihood of tidal cut offs, the forecast is for sunshine with strong winds and medium to large surf. The conditions, coupled with the number of people expected to be heading to the coast, the charity’s lifeguards are expecting it to be a busy one.
The RNLI are reminding people if you are heading to the coast to go to a lifeguarded beach, if you are swimming or bodyboarding do so between the red and yellow flags and if you do get into trouble remember to Float to Live.
The best way to float is to tilt your head back with your ears submerged. Try to relax and breathe normally. You can gently move your hands to help you stay afloat if you need to. Spread your arms and legs out to improve stability – and it's OK if your legs sink, we all float differently. Once your breathing is under control, call for help or swim to safety.
Guy Botterill, Regional Lifeguard Lead for the South West said:
‘We are expecting some warm weather and fairly rough conditions this Bank Holiday weekend and so it is imperative that if you are heading to the coast you follow the RNLI’s advice and head to a lifeguarded beach where our teams will be performing patrols from 10am-6pm each day.
‘If you are going swimming or bodyboarding, do so between the red and yellow flags as it is the safest place to do so. We hope everyone has an enjoyable and safe weekend on the coast.’
To find your nearest lifeguarded beach click here: Lifeguarded Beaches - Find Your Nearest Lifeguarded Beach (rnli.org)
Notes to editors
· Photo is taken of lifeguards on patrol
RNLI media contacts
For more information please contact Archie Connolly, Media Engagement – Placement-South West on 07977 468283 or [email protected],uk or Amy Caldwell, Regional Communications Lead on 07920 818807 or [email protected] contact the RNLI Press Office on 01202 336789.
RNLI online
For more information, please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. News releases, videos and photos are available on the RNLI News Centre.
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 over 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and, in a normal year, 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.
RNLI at 200
On 4 March 2024, the RNLI celebrates 200 years of saving lives at sea – thanks to volunteers giving their time to save others, all funded by voluntary public donations. Throughout its 200th anniversary year, the charity is running events and activities to commemorate its history, celebrate the lifesaving service it provides today, and inspire generations of future lifesavers and supporters. For more information visit RNLI.org/200.
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, Twitter 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.