RNLI saved 82 lives in the South West in 2024

RNLI lifeguards have been training for their lifesaving work on south west beaches

More than 80 lives were saved in 2024 by lifeboat crews and lifeguards in the South West.

Data from the RNLI shows volunteer lifeboats were launched 1,475 times while lifeguards responded to 6,892 incidents, helping 9,178 people over the course of the year.

A combined 82 lives were saved in the region by the two services, compared to 72 in 2023.

The RNLI said common callouts involved boats with mechanical failures and paddleboarders and kayakers caught out by sea conditions.

Guy Botterill, RNLI regional lifeguard lead for the south west said he "strongly urged" people to use beaches which had a lifeguard patrol.

Cold water shock

Mr Botterill said the region's lifeguards had been through "several weeks of rigorous training" before their return to beaches on 5 April.

"They are excited to be back on the beaches doing what they do best, providing the highest quality lifesaving service," he said.

"Our lifeguards are experts on the local beach risks, tides and weather conditions, so please speak to them for advice and information."

Mr Botterill warned that water was "usually at its coldest at this time of year" which increases the risk of cold water shock.

He added: "The winter weather at your local beach might have altered the landscape and terrain, so it's essential to familiarise yourself with any new hazards such as rip currents or exposed rocks."

Which beaches have lifeguards?

RNLI lifeguards will patrol the following beaches full-time for the two-week Easter holidays from Saturday 5 to Monday 21 April.

Cornwall: Crantock, Fistral, Towan, Watergate Bay, Mawgan Porth, Tregonhawke, Widemouth, Summerleaze, Treyarnon, Constantine, Harlyn, Polzeath, Praa Sands, Porthtowan, Chapel Porth, Perranporth, Gwithian North, Hayle Towans, Porthmeor, Sennen

Devon: Bantham, Exmouth, Woolacoombe, Croyde

Dorset: Weymouth Beach

Lifeguards will continue to provide daily patrols on Sennen, Porthmeor, Perranporth and Fistral, after 21 April.

The RNLI said the other beaches will be patrolled over the weekend of 26 to 27 April and return to daily patrols from Saturday 3 May for the rest of the summer.