RNLI advice: choose a lifeguarded beach as bank holiday sun set to draw crowds

As thousands of people are set to flock to the south west coastline to make the most of the sunshine and surf conditions this bank holiday weekend, RNLI lifeguards will be returning in greater numbers, with 67 ⃰ beaches across the region being patrolled daily from Saturday 23 May.

The lifesaving charity is reminding people that while the sea can look inviting, especially in bright weather, it still presents risks, and the safest place to swim is between the red and yellow flags on a lifeguarded beach.

Guy Botterill RNLI Regional Lifeguard Lead says: ‘It's fantastic to have sunshine forecast for the bank holiday weekend and settled weather into the Whitsun half term. Our lifeguard teams are preparing for a busy time, working incredibly hard to keep beach goers safe.

‘We’d always encourage people to choose a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags. If you’re new to surfing, head between the black and white flags.

‘Our RNLI lifeguards are really approachable and will be monitoring the conditions carefully, so come and have a chat if you’re unsure where’s best to go or what the sea’s doing that day – we’re here to help you enjoy the beach safely.’

The advice comes as new RNLI research highlights that while people in the south west regularly visit the coast, some still underestimate the dangers. Around a third (35%) say they wouldn’t know how to float if they got into trouble in the water, and many admit they may overestimate their ability, particularly when tired or in cold water.

The RNLI is encouraging people to keep this in mind when enjoying the sea over the bank holiday and half term, even in good conditions.

Alongside its lifeguard service, the charity continues to promote its Float to Live advice — a technique that could help save your life if you get into trouble in the water:

• Tilt your head back with your ears submerged

• Relax and try to control your breathing

• Move your hands and feet to help you stay afloat

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

• Practise in a supervised location like a swimming pool

Emmie Seward-Adams, RNLI Water Safety Delivery Support says: ‘We know that, with the warm weather coming, we’ll see a huge rise in numbers of people visiting the coast and we want everyone to remember our Float to Live advice.  

‘The effects of cold water and finding yourself in difficulty in the water, instinctively cause people to gasp, panic and try to fight the water.

‘We’re urging people to ignore this instinct and remember to float: 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 then you can call for help or swim to safety. Practise in a safe, supervised environment like your local swimming pool’.

If you see someone else in difficulty in the water, the RNLI advises calling 999 or 112 and asking for the Coastguard.