Beach safety by the RNLI

Every year, thousands of people get into real, life-threatening difficulty on our coasts. They may be washed out to sea, pulled under by a strong rip current, or simply get into the water when conditions are dangerous. To ensure you and your family don’t put yourselves in danger we have compiled some simple steps you can take to stay safe on the beach.

Top tips to stay safe

Wherever possible, always swim at a lifeguarded beach. Go to www.goodbeachguide.co.uk to search for listings throughout the UK and RoI.
Always read and obey the safety signs, usually found at the entrance to the beach. These will help you avoid potential hazards on the beach and identify the safest areas for swimming.
When on a lifeguarded beach, find the red and yellow flags and always swim or bodyboard between them – this area is patrolled by lifeguards.
Never swim alone.
If you get in trouble, stick your hand in the air and shout for help.
If you see someone in difficulty, never attempt a rescue. Tell a lifeguard or, if you can’t see a lifeguard, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.
Know your flags

Know your flags

Red and yellow flags indicate Lifeguarded area: safest place to swim, bodyboard and use inflatables.

Black and white chequered flags indicate area for surfboards, kayaks and other non-powered craft. Never swim or bodyboard here.

The red flag indicates Danger! Never go in the water when the red flag is up, under any circumstances.

The orange windsock indicates offshore winds or unsafe water conditions – never use an inflatable when the sock is flying.

Rip Currents

Rips are strong currents that can quickly take swimmers from the shallows out beyond their depth.
Lifeguards will show you where you can avoid rips but if you do get caught in one:

Stay calm - don’t panic.
If you can stand, wade don’t swim.
Keep hold of your board or inflatable to help you float.
Raise your hand and shout for help.
Never try to swim directly against the rip or you’ll get exhausted.
Swim parallel to the beach until free of the rip, then make for shore.
If you see anyone else in trouble, alert the lifeguards or call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.

Beach safety guide

click here to download the official Beach safety guide.