Lifeguards Back On Dorset Beaches

RNLI lifeguards will be back on three of Dorset’s busiest beaches over the two week Easter school holidays (31 March to 15 April).

The increase in lifeguardcover at Easter comes in response to more people visiting the beach in the spring months. 

Simon Crayfourd, RNLI Lifeguard Manager for Dorset says: "The RNLI is delighted to be providing a lifeguard service on Bournemouth and Sandbanks beaches over the Easter school holidays for the first time this year, and we are grateful for the support we receive from Bournemouth Borough Counciland Borough of Poole.
 
"Alongside the year-round service on Boscombe beach, this increase in RNLI lifeguard covermeans beach goers in Dorset have the option of three beaches in the week leading up to the Easter Bank Holiday weekend (6 to 9 April) and the following week. 
 
"The enhanced service is a result of the charity’s recognition of the increased participation in water sports such as kite surfing and kayaking in the Dorset area, and more and more people using the beach for recreation. Modern wet suits allow people to begin taking part in water-based sports earlier in the year and endure the colder water for longer. If the good weather we’ve recently enjoyed continues, it means we can expect a good number of families enjoying the region’s beaches."
 
Bournemouth and Sandbanks beaches will have RNLI lifeguard patrols from Saturday 31 March until Sunday 15 April from 10am until 6pm. RNLI lifeguards will continue to patrol Boscombe beach throughout Easter and into the summer season, while onother Dorset beaches, RNLI lifeguards will begin their full summer season patrols from Saturday 5 May. 
 
The following top tips from the RNLI can be followed by everyone planning a trip to the beach. By following this advice, the charity’s lifeguards hope people will have a great time at the beach while staying safe.
 
1.      Swim at a lifeguarded beach
2.      Never use inflatables in strong winds or rough seas
3.      Check tide times before you go
4.      If you get into trouble, stick your hand in the air and shout for help
5.      If you see someone else in trouble, tell a lifeguard. If you can’t see alifeguard,   
         call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard