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The upcoming Easter holidays will see RNLI lifeguards return to Le Braye, St. Ouen.
From Saturday 1 to Sunday 16 April, lifeguards will be present patrolling Le Braye beach after a busy two weeks of pre-season inductions which have included essential skills in casualty care, fitness testing, lifesaving skills in and out of the water and watercraft operations.
Daily patrols at Plemont, El Tico, Watersplash, Greve de Lecq, and St Brelade’s Bay begin on Saturday 27 May.
With the 2023 season set to begin shortly, RNLI figures reveal that in 2022, RNLI lifeguards in Jersey dealt with 329 incidents, aided 390 people, and saved one life.
The RNLI works in partnership with the States of Jersey each year to set up and roll out a lifeguard service at their request. Setting up a lifeguard service each season for the States involves several different elements including recruiting, training lifeguards, and organising the logistics to deliver equipment and in some cases lifeguard units to some of the beaches.
Jake Elms, RNLI Lead Lifeguard Supervisor in Jersey, said: “RNLI lifeguards are at the forefront of the charity’s lifesaving work, as they keep beach visitors safe in Jersey. Last year’s figures show the importance of our lifeguards and what they do for the public, we are expecting the beaches in Jersey to be just as busy in the summer season ahead.
“The RNLI has been working closely with the States of Jersey and local communities to ensure the beaches and lifeguard units are ready and equipped, and that lifeguard training has been performed seamlessly.
“Pre-season preparations are in full swing, and our lifeguards are eager to return to the beaches and do what they do best - offering preventative safety advice to visitors and rescuing those in difficulty in the water or on the beach itself.
“If you are planning on going in the water, we'd highly recommend people to head to Le Braye beach this Easter and speak to the lifeguards to find out the local beach risks, tides and weather conditions. Good weather would be most welcome, however it’s important to remember that the water is usually at its coldest at this time of the year which increases the risk of cold-water shock.
“Be prepared for whatever water activity you have planned, and always have a means of calling for help. We wish everyone a safe and happy Easter.”
The States of Jersey invest each year in keeping their beach visitors safe by contributing to RNLI costs, which helps to meet lifeguard wages, while the extensive training and equipment needed is provided by the charity through public donations.
Deputy Lucy Stephenson, Assistant Minister for Economic Development, Tourism, Sport and Culture in Jersey, said: “Jersey is blessed with some glorious beaches that provide wonderful experiences and memories for Islanders and visitors alike. However, we all know how important it is to respect the power of the waters around our shores.
“I would like to thank the entire RNLI lifeguard team for their continued work to keep beachgoers safe during the summer season, and I am pleased to welcome them back onto the beaches of Jersey for 2023.”
The RNLI is urging anyone visiting the coast this summer to make sure they keep themselves and their families safe by following 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.
Keep a close eye on your family – on the beach and in the water – don’t allow your family to swim alone.
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.
