RNLI lifeguards will be returning to Burnham-on-Sea beach and in addition will be providing a lifeguard service on Brean beach from this Saturday (2 July) until Sunday 4 September.
The charity is urging visitors to the Sedgemoor coast to visit one of these lifeguarded beaches.
Matt Whitley, RNLI Lead Lifeguard Supervisor for North Devon and Somerset says:
‘We are pleased to be providing a lifeguard service on these two beaches in Sedgemoor and encourage the public to choose either Burnham-on-Sea or Brean beach if they are planning a day out at the coast this summer.’
Last year (2021), RNLI lifeguards covering the south west dealt with 11,216 incidents, aided 13,664 people and saved 57 lives and the charity’s lifesavers are expecting a busy year ahead.’
The RNLI is urging anyone visiting the coast this summer to make sure they keep themselves and their families safe by following beach safety advice:
- Visit a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags.
- Check the weather forecast, tide times and read local hazard signage to understand local risks.
- Keep a close eye on your family – on the beach and in the water – don’t allow your family to swim alone.
- If you fall into the water unexpectedly, FLOAT TO LIVE. Fight your instinct to thrash around, lean back, extend your arms and legs, and float.
- In an emergency dial 999/112 and ask for the Coastguard.
Matt continues;
‘The RNLI have run a couple of lifeguard courses in the run up to the season and we have six lifeguards from last year returning to the beaches on Saturday (2 July).
‘The RNLI is looking to expand the lifeguard service onto all three beaches along the Burnham-on-Sea stretch for 2023 and would welcome a chat with anyone interested in finding out more. Please contact Luke Penman Luke_Penman@rnli.org.uk ‘