I work on lifeboats – the huge mistake everyone makes at the beach that can be deadly
AN expert in beach safety has issued a warning to Brits heading to the beach ahead of the heatwave this weekend.
Temperatures are set to hit 32C, with warm weather across the country.
However, anyone who will be taking a dip in the sea could easily fall into trouble.
Chris Cousens, RNLI Regional Water Safety Lead, has warned that there will be “fewer lifeguards” on the beaches due to the peak season being over.
He issued advice on how to remain floating if falling into difficulty in the water until you can get to safety.
Chris explained: “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.”
However he also recommends only swimming at beaches with lifeguards and staying between the red and yellow flag areas.
He said there has also been an increase in paddleboard rescues in recent weeks.
Christ added that people should be travelling with a “buoyancy aid, phone waterproof pouch and board leash” to ensure their safety.
And finally, he explained what to do if getting into a riptide – and the mistake everyone makes.
Chris said: “If you find yourself in a rip current the RNLI advice is not to swim against it or you will get exhausted.
“If you can, stand up and wade, or swim parallel to the shore until you are free of the rip then head to shore.
“Remember, Float to Live if you can’t make it back or become too tired.”
Here is the current advice issued by the RNLI for anyone going swimming:
- Be prepared. Check the weather and tides, choose your spot, go with a buddy, have the right equipment.
- If in doubt, don’t go out. No matter how much preparation you do, or how experienced you are, if a swim doesn’t feel right there is no shame in getting out of the water straight away, or not entering.
- Make sure you acclimatise to avoid cold water shock.
- Be seen. Wear a bright coloured swim hat and take a tow float.
- Stay within your depths.
- Float to live.
- Call 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard in an emergency.
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