RNLI issues safety advice ahead of hot weather

The RNLI is asking anyone planning a trip to the coast or inland waterways to make sure they keep themselves and their families safe by following this advice:

• Visit a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags
• Check the weather forecast, tide times and read local hazard signage to understand local risks
• 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
• In an emergency, dial 999 and ask for the Coast Guard.

Linda-Gene Byrne, RNLI Water Safety Lead, said: ‘We are expecting people to head to the coast during the hot weather, it is a great way to have fun, relax and cool off in high temperatures. If you do go to the coast, please choose a lifeguarded beach and swim between the flags. Remember where there are no flags, there are no lifeguards.

‘If you find yourself in trouble, Float to Live. Knowing this technique and encouraging your family to practice it, could save your life. Whether you get into difficulty in the water at the coast or on any of our inland waters, Float to Live: Tilt your head back, with your ears submerged. Relax and try to breathe normally. Move your hands and legs to help you stay afloat if you need to. It’s fine if your legs sink – we all float differently. By doing this, you give yourself the chance to rest and recover your breathing. Once you’ve regained control of your breathing, you can call for help or swim to safety.’

Ends

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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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