Cover your back at sea

Monday 28 September 2015

Lifeguards are urging Islanders to look after themselves when they head off for a dip in the sea.

The RNLI stops patrolling the beaches this weekend but wants to make sure swimmers stay safe when the lifeguards are not around.

RNLI Lifeguard Supervisor Rob Stuteley said: “Water users in Jersey need to be aware of the tidal cut off. We would encourage people heading to the coast in half term to visit the lifeguarded section of the beach where we will be on hand to keep people safe and provide advice on the sea conditions.

“Those who can't make it to a lifeguarded beach can help keep themselves safe by taking note of the safety signage at the entrance to the beach, going with a friend or telling someone on the shore where they are going, and being aware of the conditions and their own capabilities in the water. If you see somebody in difficulty, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”

The RNLI took over the lifeguard service in 2011. Two dozen lifeguards helped patrol our beaches this summer and a team will back on watch in St Ouen during the half-term holiday.

Mr Stuteley said: “For the first time, the lifeguard teams were on patrol at Le Braye over the Easter fortnight and we are delighted to be able to provide cover there again over the October half term."

(Picture credit: RNLI Jersey)