RNLI lifeguards return to Camber Sands over the Easter Weekend

From Friday 18 April 2025, to Sunday 18 May, RNLI lifeguards will be on duty every weekend and bank holiday from 10am to 6pm on Camber Central beach and will be on duty there daily from Saturday 24 May, to Sunday 28 September.

Figures reveal that in 2024, RNLI lifeguards saved 15 lives, as well as dealing with over 1,930 incidents and assisting nearly 2,284 people in the south east of England alone.

Hugh Richardson, Lead Lifeguard Supervisor for East Sussex, said: ‘Our lifeguards have spent the last few weeks going through their inductions and training hard in preparation for the season ahead. RNLI lifeguards have to maintain a level of fitness, which allows them to swim 200m in under 3.5 minutes, and run 200m on sand in under 40 seconds.’

‘RNLI lifeguards undergo comprehensive training in areas such as casualty care, rescue watercraft operation, and the use of all-terrain vehicles. They are excited to be returning to Camber Sands, doing what they do best, offering preventative advice and an excellent lifesaving service.’

If you are heading to the beaches in the coming weeks as the weather improves, we strongly advise that you choose a lifeguarded beach. Speak to our lifeguards for advice and information on the local beach environment including tides, sea state and weather conditions.

Cllr Hazel Timpe, portfolio holder for neighbourhood services at Rother District Council, said: “It’s really good news that RNLI lifeguards will once again be patrolling Camber Central Beach.

‘The lifeguards are a major part of the multi-agency approach to beach and sea safety for residents and visitors alike and we look forward to working with them - and other staff from the different authorities and emergency services - as we prepare for another season at Camber and along the coast.”

Hugh has further advice for beachgoers: “It’s important to remember that the water is still very cold at around ten degrees and we ask everyone to be prepared for whatever water activity you have planned by always having 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.

• If you fall into the water unexpectedly, FLOAT TO LIVE. Find out how here: Float To Live – What To Do In An Emergency – RNLI

Notes to editors

To learn more about RNLI lifeguarded beaches visit: RNLI Lifeguards In The UK And Channel Islands

RNLI media contacts

For more information please contact Sam Carragher, Lifeboat Press Officer on [email protected] or Hatti Mellor, Regional Communications Manager on 01273 818012 or [email protected] or 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 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.