RNLI lifeguards back on Merseyside beaches
Five lives were saved last year by RNLI lifeguards patrolling the Sefton and Wirral Council areas
RNLI lifeguards are back on beaches across Merseyside ahead of the Easter Holidays.
The charity is preparing for another busy season.
New data shows that five lives were saved last year by RNLI lifeguards patrolling the Sefton and Wirral Council areas.
They also helped over 1,000 people and responded to nearly 800 incidents.
Beaches that are now being patrolled include:
- Ainsdale
- Southport
- Formby
- West Kirby
- Moreton
- Harrison Drive
- The Plateaux
- New Brighton (Perch Rock)
They join Crosby beach which is patrolled every day of the year.
Lifeguards have been training for several weeks to prepare for the upcoming season.
Andy Jordan, lead lifeguard supervisor for Sefton, said:
"RNLI lifeguards are at the forefront of the charity’s lifesaving work, as they keep beach visitors safe. Last year’s figures show the importance of our lifeguards and what they do for the public, we are expecting coastal areas to be just as busy in the summer season ahead.
"The RNLI has been working closely with Councils, local communities and in the case of Formby beach the National Trust, to ensure the beaches and lifeguard units are ready and equipped, and that lifeguard training has been performed seamlessly.
"Pre-season preparations have gone well and our lifeguards are looking forward to getting back on the beaches and doing what they do best; offering preventative safety advice to visitors and rescuing those in difficulty in the water or on the beach itself.
"However, it is important to remember that our lifeguards can’t be everywhere. Our lifeguards will be supported by the charity’s 24/7 lifeboat service and water safety work, but we urge anyone visiting the coast to take responsibility for themselves and their family this summer."
The RNLI is urging anyone visiting the coast to follow this 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.
- For activities like paddleboarding or kayaking it's recommended you wear a wetsuit, buoyancy aid or lifejacket and carry a means of calling for help in a waterproof pouch and keep it on you. Tell someone what you are doing, where you are going and when you expect to return.
- If you are going open water swimming, use a wetsuit to keep you warm, wear a bright coloured swim hat and take a tow float to store personal items including a phone for emergencies
- 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 and ask for the Coastguard.
The charity is still looking for more lifeguards - you can find out more here.