RNLI lifeguards return to Suffolk beaches with warning over cold water shock
Lifeguards return to beaches in Lowestoft and Southwold from today for the summer season.
The RNLI is urging people visiting the Suffolk coast this summer to remember its “Float to Live” advice as lifeguards return to beaches across East Suffolk for the bank holiday weekend.
From Saturday 23 May, RNLI lifeguards will patrol Lowestoft South and Southwold North beaches daily between 10am and 6pm.
The service will then expand from 11 July to include Lowestoft North and Southwold South, with patrols continuing until 6 September.
Advice to the public
Speaking to us, RNLI Water Safety Team member Liam Fayle-Parr said the charity wanted people to enjoy the coast safely, particularly as warmer weather returns.
“Cold water really affects our ability to swim,” he said.
“If anyone ever finds themselves in trouble in the water, we really urge them to resist any instinct to panic or thrash around and to just remember to float on your back.”
The RNLI’s “Float to Live” campaign advises people who unexpectedly enter the water to lean back with their ears submerged, relax and try to control their breathing until the effects of cold water shock pass.
Mr Fayle-ParR said people often underestimate the dangers posed by cold water, even during warmer weather.
“This time of year especially, there can often be a real contrast between the warmth of the air temperature and the cold of open water,” he said.
The RNLI is also encouraging visitors to choose lifeguarded beaches and swim between the red and yellow flags.
“Those red and yellow flags are positioned in places the lifeguards know are relatively safe,” Mr Fayle-Par said.
“Our lifeguards are very highly trained in rescue techniques and first aid, so if anything does go wrong, they’re on hand to help.”
The charity said offshore winds and inflatables continued to be a particular concern on the east coast.
Mr Fayle-Par warned inflatable rings, boats and paddleboards could quickly be blown out to sea faster than people are able to paddle back.
“Be very aware of offshore winds,” he said.
“And if you’re ever in any doubt, don’t go out. There’s always another day for a swim.”
The RNLI is also continuing its water safety work in schools, with Mr Fayle-Par saying education was an important part of preventing incidents before they happen.
“Many people who get in trouble in the water never intended to get wet,” he said.
“We hope the work we do in schools filters back into homes as well.”
The charity advises anyone who sees somebody in trouble in the water to call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.