RNLI’S TOP FOUR WATER SAFETY TIPS

RNLI’S TOP FOUR WATER SAFETY TIPS FOR UNDER 18s:

1. Stop and Think – Always assess the risks and think before going near water.

2. Stay Together – Always go near water with a friend or family member.

3. Float to Live – If you fall in, fight the instinct to panic. Relax, Lie back, Spread your arms and legs, and Float.

4. Call 999 or 112 – In an emergency or if you see someone in trouble, dial for help and ask for the coastguard.

Be Aware of Rip Currents

One of the most common dangers at the beach are rip currents. These powerful currents form when water returning to sea finds deep channels, pulling water — and people — away from the shore.

How to Spot a Rip Current:

• Areas of calmer, darker water between breaking waves

• Debris or sand floating out to sea

• Red flags on lifeguarded beaches – these mark dangerous areas where you should not enter the sea

What to Do if Caught in a Rip Current:

• Don’t panic – Stay calm

• Float to Live – Lie back to conserve energy and signal for help

• If you're able and confident, swim parallel to the shore to escape the current — never swim against it

Watch our video on how to identify and respond to rip currents: https://rnli.org/safety/know-the-risks/ripcurrents

Other Common Coastal Risks to Be Aware Of:

• Cold water:

  • Even when the air temperature rises, the sea remains cold.

  • You could suffer cold water shock

  • If you’re in trouble in the water, Float to Live. Keep calm, float on your back with your head back and ears submerged, move your arms and legs if you need to – everyone floats differently. When the effects of the cold have passed, call for help or swim to safety.

• Paddleboarding:

  • Offshore winds can quickly carry paddleboards and other inflatables far out to sea.

  • Always check the weather forecast and wind direction before going out.

  • Wear a buoyancy aid and use a suitable leash to stay connected to your board.

  • Carry a means of calling for help and keep it on your person o Paddle at lifeguarded beaches where possible.

• Tombstoning:

  • Jumping into water from height (e.g., rocks or piers) can lead to serious injury or death if you misjudge the depth or land awkwardly.

  • Visibility - you cannot always see what’s under the water. Hidden rocks and sudden changes in depth are common.

  • Cold Water Shock – when first entering the water, people may experience cold water shock making it difficult to swim and breathe

  • Strong currents can sweep you away

• Tides:

  • Tide changes can trap people on rocks, sandbanks, or cut off access to the beach.

  • Always check tide times before heading out and plan your day out.

  • If you can’t understand what the tide times mean when planning your day, seek local advice.

• Inflatables are for the pool. Offshore winds can sweep them out to sea quickly.

The RNLI recommends you always swim at a lifeguarded beach and between the red and yellow flags. Find Your Nearest RNLI Lifeguarded Beaches

When visiting a non-lifeguarded beach, following the above safety tips will help to keep you and your family safe while you have fun.