RNLI Issues Safety Advice For Easter Bank Holiday

The Royal National Lifeboat Institution is urging anyone planning a trip to the coast over the Easter Bank Holiday weekend to choose a lifeguarded beach and follow key safety advice.

RNLI lifeguards have now returned to 55 beaches across the UK and the Channel Islands. The charity is marking its 25th anniversary of lifeguard services as it prepares for a busy holiday period.

Key safety advice for beachgoers

To help people stay safe by the water, the RNLI is advising visitors to:

• Choose a lifeguarded beach where possible
• Swim between the red and yellow flags
• Float to Live if you get into trouble in the water

The charity is also reminding people what to do if they see someone else in difficulty at the coast. The guidance is to remember Phone, Float, Throw:

• Phone 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard
• Tell the person to Float to Live
• Throw them something that floats, such as a life ring

Advice for water users and changing conditions

Kate Eardley, RNLI Head of Global Drowning Prevention, said:
‘We highly recommend if you visit the coast, you choose a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags as this is the area most closely monitored.

‘If you are taking kayaks or paddleboards on the water, be aware of offshore winds and wear appropriate kit, including a buoyancy aid, wetsuit and carry a mobile phone in a waterproof pouch. If you plan to enter the water, acclimatise slowly to reduce the effect of cold water shock.

‘If you get into trouble in the water, Float to Live. Tilt your head back with ears submerged and try to relax and control your breathing. Don’t worry if your legs sink, we all float differently. Use your hands to help you stay afloat and then call for help or swim to safety if you can.

‘With Storm Dave forecast to bring gale force winds in parts of northern UK, if your area is affected, we urge you to stay a safe distance from wet and slippery edges, let someone know where you are going and carry a means of calling for help.

‘Please share these messages with your family and friends, we want everyone to enjoy our beautiful coast, whilst staying safe.’

Find your nearest lifeguarded beach

The RNLI has provided an online tool to help people plan ahead and locate the nearest patrolled beach. You can find it here:
👉 <a href=”https://rnli.org/find-my-nearest/lifeguarded-beaches”>Find your nearest lifeguarded beach</a>

With many expected to head to the coast over the long weekend, the RNLI is encouraging people to take simple precautions to help keep themselves and others safe.

📷RNLI lifeguards have returned to 55 beaches around the UK and Channel Islands - Credit: RNLI