RNLI lifeguards will return to Wirral beaches, including West Kirby, from this week.
New data from the RNLI reveals lifeguards patrolling Merseyside in 2022 saved five lives, aided over 1,000 people and responded to nearly 800 incidents.
Wirral’s beaches, which also include Moreton, Harrison Drive, The Plateaux and New Brighton, will go into service from Saturday 1 April, ahead of the Easter holidays.
As well as rescuing those in trouble in the water, RNLI lifeguards have to deal with multiple lost children, minor first aids including cuts and stings, major first aids including fractures and critical illnesses and provide safety advice to beach goers to ensure they enjoyed their day at the beach as safely as possible.
Andy Jordan, Lead Lifeguard Supervisor, said: “RNLI lifeguards are at the forefront of the charity’s lifesaving work, as they keep beach visitors safe. Last year’s figures show the importance of our lifeguards and what they do for the public, we are expecting coastal areas to be just as busy in the summer season ahead.
“The RNLI has been working closely with Councils, local communities and in the case of Formby beach the National Trust, to ensure the beaches and lifeguard units are ready and equipped, and that lifeguard training has been performed seamlessly.
“Pre-season preparations have gone well and our lifeguards are looking forward to getting back on the beaches and doing what they do best; offering preventative safety advice to visitors and rescuing those in difficulty in the water or on the beach itself.
“However, it is important to remember that our lifeguards can’t be everywhere. Our lifeguards will be supported by the charity’s 24/7 lifeboat service and water safety work, but we urge anyone visiting the coast to take responsibility for themselves and their family this summer.”
Wirral Council contributes to RNLI costs, which helps to meet lifeguard wages, while the extensive training and equipment needed is provided by the charity through public donations.
The RNLI is urging anyone visiting the coast this summer to make sure they keep themselves and their families safe by following their beach safety advice:
- Visit a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags
- Check the weather forecast, tide times and read local hazard signage to understand local risks
- For activities like paddleboarding or kayaking wear a wetsuit, buoyancy aid or lifejacket and carry a means of calling for help in a waterproof pouch and keep it on you. Tell someone what you are doing, where you are going and when you expect to return
- If you are going open water swimming, use a wetsuit to keep you warm, wear a bright coloured swim hat and take a tow float to store personal items including a phone for emergencies
- If you fall into the water unexpectedly, FLOAT TO LIVE. Fight your instinct to thrash around, lean back, extend your arms and legs, and float
- In an emergency dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard