RNLI lifeguards return to beaches in the North West for May half term

This Saturday 25 May, marks the beginning of ‘main season’ for the RNLI lifeguards, meaning a greater number of beaches will be being patrolled. The RNLI is encouraging that people heading to the coast should visit a lifeguarded beach.

Andy Jordan Lead Lifeguard Supervisor for Sefton said:

‘During the half term holiday, RNLI lifeguards will be patrolling every day on beaches across the North West. We encourage anyone planning on visiting the coast to choose a lifeguarded beach.

‘Remember to swim and bodyboard between the red and yellow flags, or surf, kayak or stand-up paddleboard between the black and white flags.

‘The lifeguards position the flags in the safest area of the beach, if you see a red flag the lifeguards have deemed that area of the beach as unsafe. If you ever have any questions, feel free to approach the lifeguards, we’re a friendly bunch!’

In the North West from this Saturday 25 May, the following beaches will be patrolled every day from 10am-6pm:

In the Wirral, West Kirby, Moreton, Harrison Drive, The Plateaux and West Kirby will be patrolled every day from 25 May – 2 June and will then remain open full time for the duration of the summer season.

In Sefton, Southport, Ainsdale, Formby and Crosby will be patrolled every day from 25 May – 2 June. Southport, Ainsdale and Crosby will remain open full time until the end of the summer season. Formby will be patrolled on weekends only until 29 June when it opens full time.

Chris Cousens RNLI Water Safety Lead said:

‘We expect a great number of people to visit the coast this bank holiday weekend and during the half-term holiday. The RNLI wants people to enjoy themselves, whilst staying safe.

‘There are a number of beaches being patrolled by RNLI lifeguards across the North West. We advise that people should choose to visit one of these beaches between 10am and 6pm when the lifeguards are on patrol, and always swim between the red and yellow flags.

‘Remember it's safest not to go into the water alone - the person you're with can help you stay safe. And ensure that you’re always carrying a mobile phone.

‘If you unexpectedly find yourself in difficulty in the water, float to live. If you see anyone else in difficulty anywhere along the coast, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.’

Media Contacts

For more information please contact Anya Walton Media Engagement Placement at [email protected] or call 07977468268. Alternatively contact the RNLI Press Office at [email protected] or call 01202336789.

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.