RNLI warn of reduced lifeguard presence on Westcountry beaches

Today is the end of peak season

Author: Chris TatePublished 1st Sep 2024

People across the south west are being reminded of a reduced lifeguard service across beaches - as today marks the end of the peak season.

A number of beaches across Devon, Cornwall and Somerset including Carbis Bay, Lusty Glaze, Blackpool Sands and Burnham-on-Sea will be finishing lifeguard patrols from today.

The RNLI are urging people to enjoy a lifeguarded beach if you're enjoying the sun this September.

Guy Botterill, Regional Lifeguard Lead for the south west said: ‘Whilst the charity’s lifeguards will not be on as many beaches over the next couple of weeks, we are expecting good weather and so I would like to remind people that if you are planning on going to the coast to do so at a lifeguarded beach, swim and bodyboard between the red and yellow flags and if you do get into trouble remember to float to live, lie flat on your back with your ears submerged.'

‘Each year, the RNLI provide a lifeguard service on behalf of the Local Authority or private beach owner, in peak season, RNLI lifeguards patrol nearly 90 beaches across the south west. We’d like to thank our partners for allowing us to provide the service and help continue to keep people safe when they head to the coast. ‘