Devon lifeguards gearing up for busiest summer yet
A survey has found 75% of people aged 16 to 64 plan on visiting the country's coast this summer
Lifeguards in Devon are preparing for their busiest summer yet, as around 30 million people are expected to visit the UK coast.
In a national survey commissioned by the RNLI, 75% of 16 to 64-year-olds said they plan to visit a beach between April and September.
Around half of the those plan to visit the coast three or more times, and 36% said they also plan to go more than usual this year, compared to 24% in 2020.
The results have been revealed as the RNLI and HM Coastguard launches their joint beach safety campaign today (27 May).
Last year more than 15 million visitors were recorded on RNLI lifeguard-patrolled beaches, and due to the uncertainty around foreign travel and people opting for staycations, the RNLI is predicting this summer will be the busiest ever.
Nick Ayers, Regional Water Safety Lead, said it's important to follow safety guidance:
"Visit a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags. If you get into trouble in the water, float to live. If you are in difficulties in the water and have a mobile phone in a waterproof pouch or you spot someone in trouble in the water, call 999 in an emergency and ask for the coastguard if you're at the coast. Don't enter the water after them. They are three things that are life savers."
In 2020, RNLI lifeguards saved 110 lives across the country, helped 25,172 people, responded to 10,687 incidents and made more than 2.2 million preventative actions.
Claire Hughes, Director of HM Coastguard, said:
"2020 was an exceptionally busy year and we’re expecting more people to take their holidays around our wonderful coasts this summer.
"We’re asking everyone to follow a few simple safety tips, so the trip is memorable for all the right reasons.
"Before setting out, take a minute to check the weather, tides and winds to help avoid getting caught out.
"Leave inflatables at home as they are designed for the pool, not open water, where the wind and current can very quickly take you out to sea and into danger.
"Recreational watersports such as paddleboarding are now incredibly popular and we’d encourage everyone to make it a fun rather than frightening experience. It pays to prepare and taking a mobile phone in a waterproof pouch when you set out for a paddle will mean you can call for help if needed.
"If you or someone else is in trouble, always call 999 and ask for the Coastguard."
You can find your nearest lifeguarded beach on the RNLI's website.