Able to swim 200m in under 3½ minutes, run 200m on sand in under 40 seconds and trained in lifesaving and casualty care, our lifeguards are always ready to help those in trouble
Find out what it takes
Lifeguards and beaches
Across the UK and Channel Islands, RNLI lifeguards help keep people visiting the beach safe. If you’re heading to the coast, choose a lifeguarded beach.
RNLI lifeguards have been patrolling beaches since 2001. They share safety advice, provide first aid to those who need it, and save the lives of those who get in trouble in the water. Their proactive approach is shown by the millions of preventative actions they carry out each year.
In 2024, they carried out over 2M (2,349,150) preventative actions. In addition, they attended 13,135 incidents, helped 17,068 people, and saved 85 lives.
Lifeguard training
Before a lifeguard sets foot on a beach, they take part in months of training. From a rigorous fitness test to learning vital casualty care skills, it takes a lot of hard work, dedication and commitment in order to save lives at the beach.
How we keep our beaches safe
Keeping you safe at the beach isn’t just about rescues. It’s about knowing all the hazards in the local area, sharing safety advice with visitors to the beach, and intervening before someone gets in any danger at all. Find out how lifeguards protect you and your loved ones at the beach.
Find my nearest lifeguarded beach
Visiting a lifeguarded beach is the best way to keep you and your loved ones safe. Use our interactive map and search tool to find the nearest lifeguarded beach to you.
I've been a lifeguard for 7 years and I've enjoyed every minute of it. I'd do it all over again - hopefully for seven more years.
Meet our lifeguards
What does it take to help protect the thousands of people who visit RNLI beaches every lifeguard season? Meet some of the people who will be keeping you safe at the coast.
Learn more about lifeguarding
From beach safety and prevention to rescuing those in trouble, find out how RNLI lifeguards keep beaches around the UK safe.
Keeping you safe at the coast
Meet our lifesaving lifeguards and hear more about what it takes to be a lifeguard, what the job involves and rescues they’ve been involved in
Find out more
RNLI lifeguards patrol selected beaches in England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Jersey. Stay safe - choose a lifeguarded beach.
Find your nearest