Weymouth RNLI issues half term safety warning

Dorset's RNLI lifeguards are urging us to be careful around water this half term

Every time a lifeboat crew is called to an incident, it puts additional pressure on RNLI volunteers and other front-line emergency services. In addition to this it also potentially exposes them to Covid-19.

Joel Ninnes, RNLI Water Safety Coordinator says:

‘With schools closed over the half-term and a break in online learning, it is likely we will see people lucky enough to live close to the coast using it to exercise. We are encouraging everyone to follow Government guidance on what they are able to do and where they are able to go during lockdown.

‘The school holiday will look very different this year, but for those able to use the coast for exercise, we would urge them to familiarise themselves with local risks and be as safe as possible and not put unnecessary strain on front line services.’

The RNLI’s key water safety advice is:

· Take care if walking on cliffs - know your route, watch for slippery mud and ice, be aware of unstable edges and keep dogs on a lead

· Check tide times daily

· Take a full-charged phone

· Check your equipment is in good working order

· Be aware of the conditions and your capabilities and only enter the water if it is safe to do so

· In an emergency call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard

The charity is also looking ahead to the summer.

Recruitment for this season’s team of RNLI beach lifesavers has opened at the forefront of the charity’s lifesaving work, ready for the summer.

This year, the RNLI will be celebrating the 20th anniversary of their lifeguard service.

Charlotte Mansell, 23, began lifeguarding in Weymouth and West Dorset in 2017 and is now a qualified primary school teacher. As the peak lifeguard season coincides with the school holidays, she continues to work shifts as a casual lifeguard in the summer.

‘Being a lifeguard has given me the opportunity to work in an amazing environment, help my local community, and develop a wide range of skills. I’ve improved my fitness and also get to promote education and awareness about water safety, which is crucial when living along the coast.’

‘I really enjoy the difference in each of the beaches in Weymouth and West Dorset. Each one has its own dangers, and you have to think differently on every beach to be able to make quick decisions and react to unfolding events.’

Simon Davis, 19, has been lifeguarding for two seasons and works during the summer break from his degree in Sports and Exercise Science.

He said:

‘I decided to lifeguard as I wanted a new summer job, I had a few friends who had already done some seasons on the beach and they told me how good an experience it was.’

‘Since I started lifeguarding, I have learnt vital water rescue and first aid skills, how to crew the rescue boat and use other beach equipment, along with professional communication skills with members of the public.’

‘The best part of being a lifeguard is the feelings of responsibility and satisfaction you get from almost every shift. In 2020, I rescued a young boy who had a seizure whilst bodyboarding. This was a multi-agency incident including the Air Ambulance, multiple land ambulances and the Coastguard.’

Alice Higgins, Lead Lifeguard Supervisor for the area, says: ‘If you are looking for a unique and rewarding summer job, lifeguarding could be the perfect opportunity for you. The job is demanding and requires a clear head, commitment, and dedication.

‘We’re looking for people with courage, determination and the ability to put their training into action and make the right decision if someone’s life is in danger. Those applying will need to have a valid International Life Saving Federation (ILS) recognised beach lifeguard

qualification. If you would like to do a Beach Lifeguard Course, please contact your local Surf Life Saving Club – Branksome SLSC, Weymouth SLSC or Sidmouth SLSC.’

‘The skills our lifeguards gain can be an ideal first step towards many career paths or offer invaluable experience for those studying or training in a similar field. We’ve had lifeguards who are now qualified Police Officers and Paramedics, along with those who are volunteering for other rescue agencies.’

Find out more about how you can help to improve the safety of your local community and apply to be part of our amazing lifesaving team at rnli.org/BeALifeguard