RNLI Lifeguards Wrap Up Main Season This Weekend – Check Which Beaches Are Still Patrolled

The main season for RNLI lifeguards in the south west comes to an end this Sunday, 29th September. While many beaches will see the end of daily patrols, lifeguards will still be on duty during weekends in October and throughout the October half-term holiday, from 26th October to 3rd November.

Busy Summer Season for Lifeguards

RNLI lifeguards have had an active 2024 season, as thousands flocked to the coast to enjoy the summer sun. As the region prepares for autumn swells, beachgoers are reminded to choose lifeguarded beaches and to be mindful of the conditions and their own abilities.

Henry Saddler-Irvine, RNLI Regional Lifeguard Lead for the South West, expressed his gratitude to the lifeguard teams, saying, “This Sunday marks the end of our main lifeguard season for 2024. I’d like to thank our lifeguards for their hard work over the entire season keeping people safe whilst they enjoy the coast.” He also highlighted the dedication and skill of the lifeguards, supervisors, and trainers in managing numerous incidents and providing essential care to those in need.

Where You Can Still Find Lifeguards

Lifeguard patrols will continue on a number of beaches in Cornwall, Devon, and Jersey during October weekends (5th-6th, 12th-13th, and 19th-20th October) and throughout the half-term period. In Cornwall, you’ll find lifeguards at:

• Widemouth
• Summerleaze
• Polzeath
• Harlyn
• Constantine
• Gwithian North
• Hayle
• Porthtowan
• Watergate Bay
• Towan
• Crantock
• Praa Sands
• Tregonhawke

In Devon, lifeguards will be patrolling at Croyde, Woolacombe, and Bantham, while Jersey’s Le Braye beach will also be covered.

Daily Lifeguard Coverage Until November

Four beaches in Cornwall will have daily lifeguard patrols until Sunday, 3rd November. These are:

• Sennen
• Porthmeor
• Fistral
• Perranporth

If you’re planning to head to the coast, the RNLI advises choosing one of these beaches, swimming and bodyboarding between the red and yellow flags, and remembering the ‘float to live’ advice if you find yourself in trouble: don’t panic, lie flat on your back with your ears submerged.

In the event of an emergency when lifeguards are not present, dial 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard.