Head to a RNLI lifeguarded beach as warm weather predicted
With temperatures set to rise again in the next few days, many people are likely to head to the coast to enjoy the warm weather. The RNLI is urging people to stay safe and to head to a lifeguarded beach.
The RNLI are reminding those considering visiting the coast to choose a lifeguarded beach and if venturing into the water, to swim between the red and yellow flags.
Nick Ayers, RNLI Regional Water Safety Lead, said: ‘We are reminding anyone visiting the coast to make sure they keep themselves and their families safe by following safety advice.
‘For those who are venturing into the water, the risk of cold-water shock is still a danger water can still be cold this time of year. Cold water shock can occur in anything under 16 degrees. Never enter the water after someone. Always call 999, coastguard encourage them to float and if you can, throw a life ring or throwline to their aid.’
Nick Continued: ‘For those enjoying other coastal activities our advice is to check the weather and tides, have a means of calling for help and in an emergency dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.
‘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.
Nick continued ‘Every year the RNLI deal with incidents involving capsized kayakers, stand-up paddleboarders, and swimmers getting caught in rip currents.
‘For activities like paddleboarding or kayaking we recommend you wear a wetsuit, buoyancy aid or lifejacket and carry a means of calling for help in a waterproof pouch and keep it on you and always avoid offshore winds. Tell someone what you are doing, where you are going and when you expect to return.’
Find your nearest RNLI lifeguarded beach here: Find Your Nearest RNLI Lifeguarded Beaches
The RNLI’s key safety advice for anyone visiting the coast is:
§ Before you head out, make sure it is safe. Check the tide tables and the wind direction – if you are paddleboarding or kayaking beware of offshore winds.
§ While you are out, be aware of your surroundings and the tide's direction.
§ In an emergency call 999 or 112– if you are at sea or on the beach ask for the coastguard.
RNLI Media contacts 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 Nick Ayers Regional Water Safety Lead are available for interview upon request.
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
Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.