Beach Safety Advice

TIDES

Always be aware of what the tide is doing. Is the tide coming in or going out? There are many places to check such as surf forecasting websites, tide times booklets or ask at the local lifeguard hut. Many people each year find themselves cut off by the tide, often leaving them stranded and in need of help. The UK and Ireland have some of the largest tides in the world so make sure you know what the tide is doing before you head out.

RIP CURRENTS

A Rip Current is a strong offshore current that can easily take swimmers, surfers and bodyboarders out of their depth very quickly. If you find yourself caught in a Rip Current:

• Stay calm and collected. Do not panic.
• If you are still able to stand up – attempt to wade through the sea rather than swim
• Keep hold of any floatation aids that you have with you such as bodyboards, surf boards or inflatables.
• Raise one arm – wave and shout for help.
• Never try to swim against the rip current, always swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the current
• Never discard any floatation device that you may have with you

If you see someone else in trouble inform a lifeguard as soon as you can. If there are no life guards on duty, call 999 and ask for the coast guard.