Safety reminder if you're heading to the beach

It follows the deaths of two children near Bournemouth pier

Two RNLI lifeguards watching Bournemouth beach from the pier
Author: Jo RawlingsPublished 10th Jun 2023

There's a safety reminder for anyone heading to the beach this weekend as investigations continue into the deaths of two children in the sea near Bournemouth pier.

17-year-old Joe Abbess from Southampton and 12-year-old Sunnah Khan from High Wycombe died on Wednesday 31st May.

An inquest's suggested they may have been caught in a rip tide.

RNLI lifeguards remain on duty across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole.

People visiting beaches across BCP are encouraged to follow the RNLI’s beach safety advice if entering the water:

• Choose a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags

• Check the weather and tide times before you go

• If you get into trouble in the water, Float to Live: tilt your head back with ears submerged and try to relax and control your breathing. Use your hands to help you stay afloat and then call for help or swim to safety if you can

• If you see anyone in trouble in the water, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard

Councillor Millie Earl, Deputy Leader for BCP Council and Portfolio Holder for Connected Communities said:

“With good weather on the cards, as well as some fantastic events taking place this weekend, including the Race for Life and Highcliffe Food Festival, it’s important that we all remember to respect and protect outdoor spaces.

“In particular, if you are visiting the beach, please follow the RNLI’s advice to stay safe in the water."

Visitors to BCP’s Heathland spaces are reminded not to have barbecues near heathlands or clifftops.

Electric BBQs are free to use on the seafront and disposable barbecues are only permitted on the beach from 6pm to 10.30pm.

In Poole, barbecues are not permitted on Lake Pier beach or Hamworthy Park beach.

Visitors travelling to Bournemouth by car are encouraged to use the Avenue Road Car Park (BH2 5SL) or Richmond Hill Multi-storey Car Park (BH1 1JD).

Both car parks are just short walk to the seafront and are good options when areas closer to the beach become full.

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