Sizzling Temperatures Prompt RNLI Safety Warning for Beachgoers

Photo: RNLI lifeguards on duty Credit: RNLI/Nigel Millard

As the UK braces for a heatwave with temperatures nearing 30°C, the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) has issued a safety warning to beachgoers.

With the coast expected to be exceptionally busy, the RNLI is urging visitors to prioritise safety and follow crucial guidelines to prevent accidents.

Safety First: Visit Lifeguarded Beaches

The RNLI emphasises the importance of choosing lifeguarded beaches and swimming between the red and yellow flags. Lifeguards will patrol around 245 beaches this summer, offering safety advice and assistance to anyone in distress.

Sam Hughes, Water Safety Education Manager at the RNLI, stated, “We want everyone to enjoy being around the water but we also want to make sure people stay safe and know what to do in an emergency.” He added that it is essential to acclimatise slowly to avoid cold water shock by entering the water gradually.

Float to Live: A Lifesaving Technique

For those who might find themselves in trouble while swimming, the RNLI recommends the Float to Live technique. This involves tilting the head back with ears submerged, relaxing and controlling breathing, and using hands to stay afloat. Hughes explained, “Float to Live: tilt your head back with ears submerged and try to relax and control your breathing. Use your hands to help you stay afloat and then, once you are through the initial shock, call for help or swim to safety if you can.”

In case of an emergency, the RNLI advises calling 999 and asking for the Coastguard.

The RNLI: A Legacy of Saving Lives

The RNLI, a charity dedicated to saving lives at sea, operates 238 lifeboat stations and over 240 lifeguard units across the UK and Ireland. Since its inception in 1824, the RNLI has saved over 142,700 lives. The charity’s volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service, independent of the Coastguard and government, relying solely on voluntary donations and legacies.

Stay Safe and Informed

The RNLI encourages everyone to visit their website for more information on water safety and the Float to Live technique. A full list of RNLI-lifeguarded beaches and open water swimming advice is also available online.

Stay safe this summer by following RNLI’s guidelines and enjoying the coast responsibly.