Beach safety for your family

What are the dangers for my kids?

Children need protecting from unpredictable waves, rip currents and cold water. RNLI lifeguards will be on hand to supervise or rescue your family, but our lifesavers can't be everywhere. That's why your kids need you by their side at the beach, keeping them safe.

How do I keep them safe?

Just remember these three tips:

• Choose a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags.
• If you or your children are struggling in the water, remember: Float to Live.
• In a coastal emergency, call 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard.

Teach them to float

Top tips for kids

It's important that children know how to stay safe at the beach too. Please share these messages with them:

Stop and think. Spot the dangers around you.

• The sea is powerful, it's not what you're used to in a swimming pool.
• The water is always moving and it's colder than you think.
• The edges can be dangerous, and there might be dangers under the water.

Stay together. Always go with a friend or family member when you go into or near water. Friends and family can help in an emergency.

Float. If you get into trouble in the water, float on your back and stretch out your arms and legs like you're a big starfish. When you feel calm, put a hand in the air and shout for help.

Call 999 or 112. If you see someone else in trouble in the water, don't go in to help - find an adult to call 999 or 112. 

What about little ones?

This video is perfect for youngsters. It shows our water safety expert Liam taking a trip to the beach with his family and teaching them how to be safe in and around the water.

Sign them up to Storm Force

Why not treat your children to a fun-packed Storm Force membership - the RNLI's very own club for under-11s? Your mini crew member will love this exciting and educational gift. It's just £14 / €12.50 for a whole year. By signing them up to Storm Force, you'll be helping us continue our vital lifesaving service. And, your whole family can be a part of it.