RNLI lifeguards have returned to the region’s beaches from Saturday, May 4 as daily patrols for the 2019 summer season get underway, with patrols taking place across Post area beaches.

The RNLI is urging local people and holidaymakers heading to the coast this summer to take heed of the charity’s safety advice.

RNLI lifeguards are looking forward to keeping beachgoers safe across Cornwall, Devon, Dorset and Somerset and are reminding people to follow their advice and to stay safe.

Rob Stuteley, RNLI lead lifeguard supervisor for south east Cornwall, said: “It’s that time again when the RNLI lifeguards make a welcome return to beaches around the south west coastline. The lifeguard teams were on patrol on a number of beaches over the Easter holidays and we look forward to keeping beachgoers safe over the summer season.

“Whether you are local or visiting on holiday, we’d urge beachgoers to head to an RNLI lifeguarded beach and to swim in the supervised area between the red and yellow flags.

“If you are planning on getting in the water, it’s worth remembering that the sea temperature is still cold so it’s important people wear a suitable wetsuit. Try and stay within your depth and follow the lifeguard’s advice. If you get into trouble, stick your hand in the air and shout for help. If you see someone else in trouble, tell a lifeguard, or if you can’t see a lifeguard, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

“It is also very important to check the tide times before setting out and always carry a means of calling for help in case you should get caught out.”

Lifeguards will be on duty from 10am to 6pm daily. Patrols across the region will start on individual beaches at different dates between now and July.

For more information and to find your nearest lifeguarded beach visit RNLI.org 

Patrols on beaches beginning on May 4 include Polzeath, Widemouth and Summerleaze. Patrols on beaches beginning on May 18 include Trebarwith, Black Rock, Crooklets and Sandymouth.