The RNLI has issued a reminder to families and
individuals to stay safe by visiting lifeguarded beaches this October half
term.
RNLI lifeguards will be providing safety cover on Praa Sands, Gwithian,
Porthmeor, Porthtowan, Perranporth, Polzeath, Widemouth and Summerleaze in Cornwall
from Saturday October 27 through to Sunday November 4.
For the second year running Fistral has full time cover during October and the
half term week, and will also be patrolled during weekends in November with RNLI lifeguards volunteering to operate this cover.
RNLI Lifeguard Inspector Steve Instance said: "Thanks to additional
funding from local authorities and private beach owners, the charity is again
able to extend the lifeguard season into October on a selection of beaches,
providing safety cover for those looking to prolong the summer season and enjoy
the favourable surf conditions that autumn can bring.
"We encourage people heading to the coast during half term to visit
these beaches where the charity's lifesavers will be on hand to keep people safe, offering useful advice to help prevent accidents and a
rapid reaction if something does go wrong.
"Of course the charity's volunteer RNLI lifeboat
crews remain on call 24 hours a day ready to respond to anyone in difficulty
around the coast. However, it's essential that people are aware of the dangers
and know how to look after themselves in the water to prevent incidents.
"We recommend that people take note of the safety signage at the
entrance to the beach, always go with a friend or tell someone on the shore
where they are going and be aware of the conditions and their own capabilities
in the water.
"If water users should find themselves
in difficulty they should keep hold of their surf or bodyboard as it'll help
keep them afloat.
"Walkers should also find out about
the local weather conditions and tide times and avoid visiting more remote
parts of the shoreline when the tide is coming in."
More safety advice can be found at rnli.org.uk.
