Around 20,000 children across Cornwall and Devon receive vital beach safety sessions
RNLI lifeguards are returning to classrooms for the first time since the pandemic
Last updated 4th Apr 2022
RNLI lifeguards across Cornwall and the south west have been visiting primary schools this spring, providing up to 20,000 children with key beach safety advice before they visit the coast with their families this summer.
Schools across Cornwall and Devon are being offered free 40 minute beach safety talks for Key Stage 2 children during the spring term.
The RNLI normally offers these talks every year, but the covid-19 pandemic meant they were cancelled for the last two years.
The lifeguards talk to children about why it’s important to swim at a lifeguarded beach, how to Float to Live if they get into trouble in the water, what the different flags mean, how to spot and escape a rip current and what to do in an emergency.
The children will also learn more about the role of a lifeguard and ask any questions, see the equipment they use and learn about the safety signage.
Afterwards, the children can take home leaflets to share key safety advice with their friends and families.
Joel Ninnes, Water Safety Delivery Support for the south west, says: "After a two year break due to covid, the lifeguards have really enjoyed getting back into schools and talking with the children to share how to stay safe at the coast this summer.
"The main role of our RNLI lifeguards is to keep beach users safe through preventative actions. Our school talks aim to explain to children about how to float, the risks in and around the water and how to seek help.
"Offering this programme to young children increases awareness of the potential dangers around the coast and encourages families to plan their visit and always choose a lifeguarded beach.
"Being aware of the tide times, weather conditions and beach flags can significantly reduce your risk of getting into danger whilst at the beach this summer".
Any schools wishing to book a visit can do so by emailing sw_watersafety@rnli.org.uk
How can I keep my family safe in the water?
The RNLI is urging anybody choosing to visit the coast to make sure they keep themselves and their families safe by adhering to the 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
• 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
You can find more information about water safety on the RNLI's website or watch the 'Float to Live' video below...