Lifeguard patrols start at seven more beaches

The patrols start as peak holiday season approaches

RNLI lifeguards are stepping up patrols in Devon as peak holiday season approaches, with seven new beaches now under their watch.

The inclusion of Blackpool Sands, Slapton, Hope Cove, Bigbury north, Sandy Bay, Teignmouth and Dawlish takes patrols up to their full complement of 14 beaches in the county, the charity said.

Lifeguards will patrol from 10:00 to 18:00 BST until 1 September, the RNLI said.

Rob Stuteley, lifeguard supervisor for Kingsbridge and the South Hams, said lifeguards were "excited to be back on the beaches doing what they do best, offering preventative advice and a top-quality lifesaving service".

"As ever, we want people who are coming to the coast to enjoy themselves this summer but to do so safely," he said.

"It is our strong advice that people head to a lifeguarded beach, swim and bodyboard between the red and yellow flags and if you want any advice to ask an RNLI lifeguard."

RNLI lifeguards at Sedgewell Cove in Bigbury

The RNLI is urging anyone visiting the coast to make sure they keep themselves and their families safe by

• visiting a lifeguarded beach and swimming between the red and yellow flags

• checking the weather forecast, tide times and local hazard signage to understand local risks

• keeping a close eye on family members, on the beach and in the water, and not allowing them to swim alone

• floating to live if you fall into the water unexpectedly by fighting the instinct to thrash around, leaning back, extending your arms and legs, and floating

• dialling 999 in an emergency and asking for the coastguard