Vale of Clwyd MP Dr James Davies has welcomed news that RNLI lifeguard patrols will return on Rhyl and Prestatyn beaches from tomorrow (July 4th).
Following the outbreak of Covid-19 in the UK, lifeguard services on Welsh beaches ceased.
The RNLI worked hard to rollout lifeguard patrols in June at a number of beaches in Wales and now, ahead of the changes to the Welsh Government restrictions from 6 July and the expectation of increased numbers of coast visitors, the lifesaving charity has announced that its lifeguards will be patrolling a further 12 beaches in Wales from 4 July, including Rhyl and Prestatyn.
Meanwhile, the RNLI’s joint beach safety campaign with Her Majesty’s Coastguard launches in Wales today to raise awareness to coast visitors of the importance of keeping themselves and their families safe.
Welcoming news of the resumed patrols in Rhyl and Prestatyn, and the campaign, James said:
“Following the recent easing of nationwide lockdown restrictions and with the school holidays just a few weeks away, many more people are expected to visit the coast and it is great to know that there will be lifeguards in place in Rhyl and Prestatyn to make our beaches safer.
“The RNLI do fantastic work and last year their lifeguards aided 4,801 people in 1,850 incidents, saving a total of 39 lives.“However, although these lifeguards will be in place, I urge people visiting our beaches in Rhyl and Prestatyn to ease the pressure on the RNLI by taking charge and being ‘beach smart’ to ensure they and their families have the safest summer possible. I would also urge all to remember to keep socially distanced as we continue to try to prevent a second peak of Covid-19 Infection.”
The RNLI and HM Coastguard are advising the public not to use inflatables at all and for everyone, especially parents, planning a visit to a beach or the coast to follow this safety advice:
- To visit a lifeguarded beach where possible.
- To plan ahead: check the weather forecast, tide times and read local hazard signage.
- To keep a close eye on your family – on the beach and in the water; don’t allow your family to swim alone; don’t use inflatables.
- Float to live: If you fall into the water unexpectedly, 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.
For further information on the campaign visit:https://rnli.org/news-and-media/2020/may/21/rnli-and-hm-coastguard-launch-beach-safety-campaign
