Lifeguard cover returning to 28 more beaches in Cornwall for the summer
Patrols are being carried out from Porthcurno to Polzeath and the RNLI is urging everyone to choose a life-guarded beach
Lifeguards have returned to an extra 31 beaches across Cornwall and the south-west for the summer.
The RNLI's lifeguard service has been running on some beaches since Easter.
More beaches began patrols on Saturday (15th May) to reflect the rise in visitors and beach-users, bringing the total number of beaches to 59.
The beaches beginning RNLI lifeguard operations in Devon are; Challaborough, Westward Ho! and Sandymere.
The beaches in Cornwall are: Seaton, Poldhu Cove, Kennack, Gyllyngvase, Crantock, Great Western, Tolcarne, Porth, Portreath, Chapel Porth, St Agnes, Perran Sands, Holywell Bay, Godrevy, Gwithian South, Upton Towans, Beach View, Mexico Towans, Porthminster, Gwenver, Porthcurno, Porthcothan, Booby’s, Trevone, Trebarwith, Black Rock, Crooklets and Sandymouth.
The RNLI urge anyone planning to enter the water, to always visit a lifeguarded beach during the operational hours of 10am-6pm, and to swim between the red and yellow flags.
"It’s important to always plan ahead for your day at the beach and come prepared.
"Speak to the RNLI lifeguards who have a wealth of local knowledge and expertise.
"They will set up the beach according to the conditions and will always put the swim-zone (between the red and yellow flags) at the safest part of the water".
Kitty Norman, RNLI Water Safety Coordinator
The RNLI lifeguards have been busy training in casualty careand water-rescue skills, ready for the summer months ahead. Rip currents are a big danger on our beaches and are one of the most common incident lifeguards deal with.
"A rip current is a strong flow of water that can appear suddenly and quickly sweep bathers out of their depth causing panic.
"It’s important to read any local signage about the location of rip currents and to understand that information.
"If you are ever unsure about rip currents and where they are located you should always speak to the lifeguards".
Steve Instance, South West RNLI Water Safety Lead
If you ever find yourself caught in a rip current, try to remember the following key safety advice:
Don’t try to swim against it, you will quickly get exhausted
If you can stand, wade don’t swim
If you can, swim parallel to the shore until free of the rip and then head for shore
If you can’t swim – FLOAT to live by leaning back in the water, extending your arms and legs, and resisting the urge to thrash around to gain control of your breathing
Always raise your hand and shout for help
If you see anyone else in trouble, alert the lifeguards or call 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard.
Watch the RNLI's 'Float to Live' video below or check the full list of life-guarded beaches in Cornwall here.