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A new generation of lifeguards has been recruited to keep Jersey's beachgoers safe after a shortage following the pandemic – and they're hoping to give their younger colleagues a "run for their money".
In response to a shortage of experienced lifeguards, the RNLI launched a campaign to recruit from the local surfing community, resulting in an intake of individuals over the age of 50.
Jake Elms, RNLI Lead Lifeguard Supervisor in Jersey, explained: "We lost a lot of our experienced lifeguards after the pandemic, so last year we actively recruited veteran surfers who had grown up on the beach and this led to an intake of older lifeguards."
"It gives them the opportunity to keep fit, use their surf knowledge, and gain casualty care training," Jake continued.
"They help coach the less experienced lifeguards and bring a lot of life experience which can be useful for dealing with anti-social behaviour on the beach or in a trauma care situation."
Among those who seized the opportunity to join the RNLI lifeguard team this summer was Digby Ellis-Brecknell, aged 53.
Digby's son was already a lifeguard for the charity, and his motivation to join was clear: "I spent so much time in the sea, either spearfishing or open water swimming or surfing, that I thought it is about time I spend some time helping other people, protecting the environment I like, and giving something back in that ocean environment."
Reflecting on the age of the new recruits, he said the value of "life experience" couldn't be underestimated.
"I think as an older lifeguard, you certainly bring one thing and that's life experience. In certain situations, you can step back a little bit, take your time, and think through a situation before rushing in."
Michael Charlton, Digby's 54-year-old colleague, who also became a lifeguard this summer, echoed the sentiment, emphasising the advantage of having deep familiarity with the beaches due to their many years spent enjoying them.
"We spend a lot of time down at the beaches, so we know how it reacts and how it changes through the tides," he explained.
Of course, their existing knowledge wasn't enough to qualify. Such skills had to be supplemented by fitness tests and a comprehensive training program, which included holding a National Vocational Beach Lifeguard Qualification (NVBLQ) or ILS Beach/Surf Lifeguard qualification or equivalent.
Michael added: "We knew we had the good beach skills, but it is so important acquiring the knowledge and skillset to use it in rescue situations. With the induction course, there was a lot of the book work and a lot of practical stuff alongside it, for example learning to use radios, swimming with the rescue tubes, rescue board skills and so much more."
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For those who relish the outdoors and an active lifestyle, Michael recommends considering a role in the RNLI lifeguard service.
"You learn a great deal. A lot of medical knowledge and vital rescue skills. You keep fit with a good bunch of people and obviously, you are working at your home beach, one that you've got experience with. It is definitely an opportunity for older people - you're never too old to do something like this, as long as you've got the basic fitness, there's always a place for you."
In a bid to engage more individuals, Jersey RNLI Lifeguards have scheduled two lifeguard open days on September 2 and 9, 2023.
These sessions provide an opportunity to meet the team, learn about their beach management practices, and get hands-on experience with rescue equipment. The open days are set to take place at El Tico, St Ouen's Bay.
Further information can be found by visiting the RNLI website here.
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