Beach Safety

 To ensure you and your family don't put yourselves in danger, the lifesaving charity, The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) have offered some essential beach safety tips.

• Swim at a lifeguarded beach where possible, between the red and yellow flags
• Never use inflatables in strong winds or rough seas
• Check tide times before you go
• If you get into trouble, stick your hand in the air and shout for help
• If you see someone else in trouble, tell a lifeguard. If you can’t see a lifeguard, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.

Those who can’t make it to a lifeguarded beach can take some basic steps to help keep themselves safe:

• Find out about your chosen beach before you go at www.goodbeachguide.co.uk
• Check weather and tides before you go
• Read the safety signs at the beach entrance to make yourself aware of specific local hazards
• If you get into trouble, stick your hand in the air and shout for help

If you see someone in trouble, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard but don't attempt a rescue yourself

When you arrive at the beach the first thing you might see is a sign giving you all the information about the beach you’re visiting. This includes important safety info on the hazards specific to the area. The signs generally use two different types of warning symbols. Do you know the difference?

Red and white prohibition sign 

Do not enter the water at any time. Swimming and other water-related activities are not permitted.

If the beach you’re at is not lifeguarded, please take extra care if you are going into the water. If lifeguards are on patrol, then you’ll need to know your flags:

Red and yellow flags

Lifeguarded area. Safest area to swim, bodyboard and use inflatables. 

Black and white chequered flags

For surfboards, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks and other non-powered craft. Launch and recovery area for kitesurfers and windsurfers. Never swim or bodyboard here. 

Red flag

Danger! Never go in the water under any circumstances when the red flag is flying. 

Orange windsock

Indicates offshore or strong wind conditions. Never use inflatables when the windsock is flying.