A safe summer at the seaside

Ten top tips for a seaside safety

If you're heading to the beach this summer, spare a thought for safety. The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) is urging anyone planning a trip to the beach and, particularly, anyone thinking of going into the water, to choose a lifeguarded beach and swim in the area between the red and yellow flags.

In 2009, RNLI lifeguards responded to 13,591 incidents, helped 15,957 people and saved 123 lives on some of the UK's busiest beaches.

Follow these safety tips to make sure you remember your summer holidays for the right reason:

1. Always swim at a lifeguarded beach
2. Swim between the red and yellow flags
3. Never swim alone
4. Know your beach safety flags
5. Never use inflatables in strong winds or rough seas
6. If you get into trouble, stick your hand in the air and shout for help
7. 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
8. Find out about the beach you're going to before you visit
9. Check tide times before you go
10. Read and obey local hazard signs

Know your flags





You can locate your nearest lifeguarded beach by visiting the Good Beach Guide.

The RNLI's guide to beach safety, On The Beach, is packed full of advice on how to stay safe at the beach. It is available free-of-charge by emailing RNLI Beach Safety or calling 0800 328 0600. Further practical advice and tips on how to stay safe can be found at he RNLI's Beach Safety website.

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