Beach Safety

Every year thousands of people get into real, life-threatening difficulty on the coast. They may be washed out to sea, pulled under by a strong rip current, or simply get into the water when conditions are dangeorus. To ensure you and your family don't put yourselves in danger, the lifesaving charity, The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) have offered some essential beach safety tips.

Top Tips to Stay Safe

• Swim at a lifeguarded beach where possible, between the red and yellow flags
• Never use inflatables in strong winds or rough seas
• Check tide times before you go
• If you get into trouble, stick your hand in the air and shout for help
• If you see someone else in trouble, tell a lifeguard. If you can’t see a lifeguard, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.

Those who can’t make it to a lifeguarded beach can take some basic steps to help keep themselves safe:

• Find out about your chosen beach before you go at www.goodbeachguide.co.uk
• Check weather and tides before you go
• Read the safety signs at the beach entrance to make yourself aware of specific local hazards
• If you get into trouble, stick your hand in the air and shout for help
• If you see someone in trouble, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard but don't attempt a rescue yourself

Know Your Flags

Red and yellow flags indicate the area patrolled by lifeguards. These are the safe areas to swim, bodyboard and use inflatables.

Black and white chequered flags indicate an area zoned by lifeguards for use of watercraft such as surfboards and kayaks. Never swim or bodyboard in these areas.

The red flag indicates danger. NEVER enter the water when the red flag is flying, under any circumstances.

The orange windsock indicates offshore wind conditions. You should NEVER use an inflatable when the sock is flying.

For more information please visit www.rnli.org.uk.