Busy May half-term for Wirral RNLI Lifeguards

On Monday 25 May, RNLI lifeguards at New Brighton responded to a woman who had a seizure in the water. Once she was returned to shore, lifeguards gave casualty care, alongside paramedics and the police.

On Tuesday 26 May, again at New Brighton, lifeguards rescued three children on a kayak who were struggling against strong offshore winds and drifting out to sea. Lifeguards responded on the Rescue Water Craft (RWC) and brought the children back to shore safely. The following day, two more people on inflatables were caught in a strong current and were dragged over a groyne from Plateaux Beach. Lifeguards at New Brighton responded on the RWC and rescued the casualties, bringing them to shore.

Currently, RNLI beach lifeguards are patrolling full time, everyday 10am-6pm until September at New Brighton, The Plateaux, Harrison Drive, Moreton and West Kirby.

Anna Underwood, Seasonal Lifeguard Supervisor said:

‘After a busy week for our lifeguards, we’d like to remind you to always visit a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags. If we are flying the “No inflatables” orange windsock on the beach, this indicates strong offshore winds. Inflatables can quickly blow you out to sea and are best suited to swimming pools and not open water.

‘Remember to check the tide times and conditions before you visit and always carry a means of contact like a mobile phone.

‘You can find your nearest lifeguarded beach by heading to the RNLI website and searching your postcode.’

While the air temperature can become warm at this time of year, the sea is still cold and cold water shock remains a very real risk.

If you do find yourself in difficulty in the water, remember Float To Live:

• Tilt your head back, with your ears submerged

• Relax and try to breathe normally

• Move your hands and feet to help you stay afloat

• It’s fine if your legs sink, we all float differently.

• Once you have regained your energy, call for help.

If you see anyone in difficulty in the water, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

For more information please contact Betsy Owen, Regional Communications Placement on [email protected] or 07483 485378.

Alternatively you can contact Claire Fitzpatrick-Smith, Regional Communications Manager on [email protected] or 07977 728315, or contact the RNLI Press Office on 01202 336789.