Revealed: Over 80 Lives Saved by RNLI in the South West Last Year

Lifeguards return to Cornwall’s beaches as RNLI urges caution over Easter

As families prepare to head to the coast for the Easter holidays, the RNLI is urging beachgoers to stay safe, following the release of new figures showing more than 80 lives were saved by RNLI lifesavers in the south west in 2024.

The charity’s lifeguards and lifeboat crews responded to thousands of incidents throughout the year, highlighting the importance of staying alert and following safety advice.

Thousands Rescued by Lifeguards and Lifeboat Crews

According to the RNLI, lifeguards responded to 6,892 incidents in 2024, aiding 9,178 people and saving 43 lives.

Meanwhile, RNLI lifeboat crews – made up of volunteers –  launched 1,475 times, saving 39 lives and spending 10,342 hours at sea.

Many of the incidents involved small sailing and motor craft with mechanical failure, as well as paddleboarders and kayakers caught out by changing conditions.

Lifeguards Return to Cornwall’s Beaches for Easter

From Saturday 5th April to Monday 21st April, RNLI lifeguards will patrol 26 beaches across the south west, including 20 beaches in Cornwall.

The RNLI says lifeguards have completed several weeks of rigorous training to get ready for the new season. This includes fitness testing, casualty care, lifesaving techniques, and watercraft operations.

Guy Botterill, RNLI Regional Lifeguard Lead for the south west, said:

‘Over the last few weeks, our lifeguards have been working hard in their training and inductions to prepare for the new season. They are excited to be back on the beaches doing what they do best; providing the highest quality lifesaving service.’

‘If you are heading to the coast over Easter, we strongly advise going to a lifeguarded beach. Our lifeguards are experts on the local beach risks, tides and weather conditions, so please speak to them for advice and information.’

‘It’s important to remember that the water is usually at its coldest at this time of the year, which increases the risk of cold water shock. Additionally, the winter weather at your local beach might have altered the landscape and terrain, so it’s essential to familiarise yourself with any new hazards such as rip currents or exposed rocks.’

Cornwall Beaches with RNLI Patrols Over Easter

RNLI lifeguards will be on duty at the following Cornwall beaches:

Crantock, Fistral, Towan, Watergate Bay, Mawgan Porth, Tregonhawke, Widemouth, Summerleaze, Treyarnon, Constantine, Harlyn, Polzeath, Praa Sands, Porthtowan, Chapel Porth, Perranporth, Gwithian North, Hayle Towans, Porthmeor, and Sennen.

After the Easter break, daily patrols will continue at Sennen, Porthmeor, Perranporth, and Fistral, with the remaining beaches returning to full-time cover from Saturday 3rd May.

RNLI Safety Advice for Coastal Visitors

The RNLI is reminding everyone heading to the coast this Spring to be prepared:

• Check your vessel or equipment

• Wear a lifejacket and have a means of calling for help

• Visit a lifeguarded beach and swim between the flags

• Check weather forecasts, tide times, and local hazard signs

• Supervise your family at all times on the beach and in the water

• If you fall into water unexpectedly, FLOAT TO LIVE – lean back, stretch out your arms and legs, and try to stay calm

• In an emergency, dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard

To find your nearest lifeguarded beach, visit: rnli.org/findmynearest

The RNLI’s south west region covers an area from Bristol round to Weymouth, including the Isles of Scilly and Channel Islands.