RNLI lifeguards remind beachgoers to stay safe over August bank holiday

The RNLI is encouraging beachgoers to visit a lifeguarded beach and to swim between the red and yellow flags where it is safest. The charity’s lifeguards also urge members of the public not to take inflatables into the sea as they can be blown out from shore within seconds by offshore wind. Lifeguards use orange windsocks to notify when there are such winds.

For people participating in a water sport or activity, the advice is to be prepared and aware of your environment. Remember to look for hazards in the area, go with someone instead of going alone, check the weather forecast and tide times before setting out. Tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll be back, and think about what suitable clothing to wear, such as a wet or dry suit, for expected weather conditions.

Nick Ayers, RNLI Water Safety Lead, North and East of England, said: ‘We want people and their families to enjoy the coastline, but to do so safely.

‘Keep an eye out for the orange windsock on lifeguarded beaches, this signals that no inflatables should be taken out to sea due to offshore winds. Our lifeguards will be on duty on 44 beaches in the North and East between 10am and 6pm over the weekend to offer friendly advice and medical assistance if needed.

‘If you do find yourself in the water unexpectedly, Float to Live. Tilt your head back with ears submerged, relax and try to control your breathing, move your hands to help you stay afloat and once you are over the initial shock, call for help or swim to safety.’

Carl Harris Regional Lifeguard Lead, North and East of England added: ‘We strongly encourage anyone planning to go in the sea this weekend to visit one of the lifeguarded beaches.

‘Lifeguards set up the flags in the safest areas of the beach. Swim or bodyboard between the red and yellow flags. If you see a red flag flying, the lifeguards have deemed that area of the beach as dangerous, and we recommend that you do not enter the water.

‘If you ever have any questions, feel free to approach the lifeguards. We’re a friendly bunch and are always happy to offer advice.’

Our world-class lifeguards patrol 249 beaches around the coast of the UK and the Channel Islands They’re here to keep you and your loved ones safe, in and out of the water, by providing first aid and sharing vital safety advice. So, if you’re looking for a safe beach near you, check out our locations. Find Your Nearest RNLI Lifeguarded Beaches

RNLI Media contacts For more information, please contact Jess Curtis, RNLI and Regional Engagements North and East, Lifeboat Press Officer at Wells: Tel 07483488243 Email: [email protected] contact the RNLI Press Office on 01202 336789.

Notes to Editor

Find your nearest RNLI Lifeguarded beach

Find Your Nearest RNLI Lifeguarded Beaches

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI is the charity that 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 146,700 lives.

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Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries

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