New campaign as full lifeguard patrols begin

RNLI Beach lifeguards working on the beach at Le Braye during the Easter holiday Kris Heron Picture: DAVID FERGUSON

The lifeguard service has been operating full time in St Ouen’s Bay since the start of May. Patrols at Plémont, Grève de Lecq and St Brelade’s Bay will resume tomorrow.

And as part of the new safety campaign, Islanders are being urged to visit a lifeguarded beach when taking trips to the coast.

Jake Elms, RNLI lead lifeguard supervisor, said he expects this summer to be the ‘busiest ever’, as Covid and travel restrictions ease and people flock to the beaches during the warmer months.

He has urged people to check the weather, tides and winds before heading to the beach.

‘We want people to enjoy the Island’s spectacular beaches, but urge everyone to respect the water, think about their own safety and know what to do in an emergency,’ he said. ‘Our main advice is to visit a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags. RNLI lifeguards will be patrolling four beaches in Jersey from Saturday throughout the summer to offer advice on how to stay safe and they are also there to help anyone who gets into trouble.’

He added: ‘Our coastline provides great opportunity to enjoy fresh air and open space but it can be an unpredictable and dangerous environment, particularly during early summer when air temperatures start warming up but water temperatures remain dangerously cold, increasing the risk of cold water shock.’

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