RNLI lifeguards have 'extremely busy' two weeks

The majority of lifeguard incidents involved rip currents, the RNLI says

The RNLI has issued a warning about spring tides and rip tides following "a lot" of callouts over an "extremely busy" two weeks.

Staff said there were 55 shouts on Devon and Cornwall beaches for RNLI lifeguards in the past two weeks.

A spokesperson said the majority of lifeguard incidents involved rip currents, particularly on the north coast surf beaches and, while it was not unusual for this time of year, 55 shouts in 14 days was high. They said: "Our crew are volunteers who need to leave their day jobs and their families to respond."

Warm weather meant beaches would be busy, the charity added, with beachgoers urged to choose a lifeguarded beach and swim between red and yellow flags.

'Ask someone'

"RNLI lifeguards and lifeboat crews across the region have been extremely busy over the last couple of weeks," the spokesperson added.

As well as urging beachgoers to swim between the flags, the RNLI warned: "Large spring tides forecast this week mean areas affected by tidal cut-off may be cut off faster than normal, and areas not normally known for tidal cut-off may see incidents occur.

"Ask someone if you are not sure what the tide table means - the lifeguards are especially helpful and knowledgeable about the beach they work on."

Rips are strong currents running out to sea and can quickly drag people out to deeper water.

To avoid a rip current, according to the RNLI:

• Choose a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags

• Wear a bright coloured swimming cap

• Swim with others, never go alone

It added that, if people did find themselves caught in a rip:

• Do not try to swim against it - people will become exhausted

• If anyone can stand, wade, do not swim

• If they can, swim parallel to the shore until they are free of the rip

• Raise their hand and shout for help

People are advised to call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard if they suspect someone is in difficulty.