Cornwall's RNLI lifeguards to return to beaches ahead of Easter
Figures reveal lifeguard crews saved 23 lives in Cornwall last year
Cornwall's lifeguards will be returning to 18 beaches from tomorrow to keep swimmers and surfers safe for the start of the Easter holidays.
From Saturday 1 to Sunday 16 April, a total of 23 beaches across the South West, and 18 in Cornwall, will be patrolled by RNLI lifeguards.
RNLI figures reveal that in 2022, 8 million people visited an RNLI lifeguarded beach in Cornwall and RNLI lifeguards saved 23 lives, as well as dealing with nearly 7,000 incidents and assisting over 8,000 people.
Tim Fallowfield, Lead Lifeguard Supervisor in Cornwall, said:
"The RNLI has been working closely with the Council and local communities to ensure the beaches and lifeguard units are ready and equipped, and that lifeguard training has been performed seamlessly.
"Pre-season preparations are in full swing and the charity’s lifeguards are eager to return to the beaches and do what they do best - offering preventative safety advice to visitors and rescuing those in difficulty in the water or on the beach itself".
For the two week school Easter Holidays (Saturday 1 April - Sunday 16 April) the following beaches in Cornwall will be patrolled by RNLI lifeguards: Tregonhawke, Praa Sands, Fistral, Towan, Sennen, Porthmeor, Hayle, Gwithian, Porthtowan, Perranporth, Watergate Bay, Mawgan Porth, Constantine, Harlyn, Polzeath, Widemouth and Summerleaze.
Patrols will continue daily at Fistral, Perranporth, Porthmeor and Sennen until the end of September, while patrols on a number of other beaches will have weekend cover and return daily for the summer on Saturday 29 April, following the Easter holidays.
Tim added: "We'd highly recommend people to head to one of our RNLI lifeguarded beaches this Easter and speak to the lifeguards to find out the local beach risks, tides and weather conditions. Good weather would be most welcome, however 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 rips or exposed rocks.
"Be prepared for whatever water activity you have planned, and always have a means of calling for help. We wish everyone a safe and happy Easter".
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 and ask for the Coastguard.