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RNLI Lifeguards are back on the beaches!

Lifeguards News Release

With the sunshine returning you will see more red and yellow flags on beaches as RNLI lifeguards return to keep people safe on the shore and in the water.

Lifeguards on Minnis Bay Beach

RNLI/Adam Orzechowski

Lifeguards on Minnis Bay Beach

On Saturday 25 May 2024, many beaches across the south east coast will see RNLI lifeguards returning for the summer season. Some of our busier beaches have been lifeguarded on weekends since the Easter holidays, but as 75% of all lifeguard incidents occur during the summer months, RNLI Lifeguards will now be on daily service from 10am-6pm.

The RNLI works in partnership with councils and private beach owners each year to keep beachgoers safe.

Figures from the RNLI reveal that in 2023, RNLI lifeguards saved 14 lives, as well as dealing with over 2,000 incidents and assisting nearly 2,500 people in the south east of England.

Ed Stevens, Regional Lifeguard Lead for the south east says:

‘Our lifeguards have spent the last few weeks going through their inductions and training hard in preparation for the season ahead. They are excited to be back on the beaches doing what they do best, offering preventative advice and an excellent lifesaving service.

If you are heading to the beaches in the coming weeks, we strongly advise heading to a lifeguarded beach. Speak to our lifeguards for advice and information about local beach risks, tides and weather conditions.’

Ed goes on to advise beachgoers:

‘It's important to remember that the water is still cold and we'd ask everyone to be prepared for whatever water activity you have planned by always have a means of calling for help and checking the weather forecast and local hazard signage to understand local risks.’

When visiting the beach this summer remember:

  • Visit a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags

· Keep a close eye on your family - on the beach and in the water - don't allow your family to swim alone.


RNLI media contacts

For more information please email Izzy Coley, RNLI Media Engagement Placement – South East Region on [email protected] or telephone 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. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 144,000 lives.

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.