RNLI issues water safety warning for the East ahead of busy bank holiday
They charity is encouraging people to be prepared and informed
As thousands are expected to head for the coast, rivers and lakes this bank holiday, the RNLI is urging people to take extra care around the water.
Nick Ayers, Regional Water Safety Lead for the RNLI in the East of England, said the message is simple: enjoy the water, but do it safely.
“Heading into the bank holiday weekend, we want everyone to enjoy the water safely and responsibly,” he said. “We’re encouraging everybody to head to a lifeguarded beach, where you’ll see the red and yellow flags marking the safest place to swim.”
In Suffolk, only Lowestoft and Southwold beaches are lifeguarded. For other stretches of coast, Nick stresses the importance of preparation.
“If you aren’t going to a lifeguarded beach, always read up on safety information about that location beforehand. Check the weather forecast, tide times, and especially the wind. Offshore winds in particular can sweep stand-up paddle boarders and inflatable users out to sea very quickly.”
Inflatables, he added, should stay in the pool.
“Your big unicorns and flamingos are great fun in the pool, but not on the sea. That’s where we see a lot of incidents.”
What to do if someone's in trouble
The RNLI is also keen to stamp out a dangerous instinct: running into the water to rescue someone in trouble.
“Unfortunately, we see a lot of bystanders heading in after someone, but often they come off worse,” Nick warned. “Never enter the water after somebody, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”
Nick said many people underestimate how quickly conditions can change.
“Nobody intends to get into trouble. People go to the beach to relax, but the tides, the wind and the weather can all change fast. That’s why supervision is key, especially with children.”
Parents can take simple steps to be prepared, such as photographing their child when they arrive at the beach so they have a description ready if they become separated. Some beaches also offer child wristbands with contact details.
And the advice is just as important for teenagers and adults.
“Always go with somebody else, take the right equipment, and follow the safety signs and flags at the beach,” Nick said.
Asked what trends worry him most, Nick was clear:
“The biggest call-out for our lifeguards along the Suffolk and Essex coast is still offshore winds. So please, understand the conditions before you go in the water.”
The RNLI says it loves seeing people make the most of the coast, but is urging everyone to think water safety first this bank holiday.
More information on water safety can be found here.