RNLI Key Safety Advice


The RNLI key safety advice for anyone visiting the coast is:


■ Visit a lifeguarded beach - use the RNLI’s tool to find your nearest lifeguarded beach: https://rnli.org/find-my-nearest/lifeguarded-beaches


■ Have a plan - check the weather forecast, tide times and read local hazard signage.


■ Stay together and don’t use inflatables.


■ 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 call 999 and ask for the Coastguard


We recommend looking at the Met Office app or www.metoffice.gov.uk to find local tide times and weather forecasts. Lifeguards will also put a blackboard of information next to their hut that will give you details on the weather and any necessary warnings for the day.


The RNLI lifeboat volunteers are often called out to families cut off by the tide whilst enjoying a coastal walk or to children who’ve drifted out on inflatables so most importantly, always check tide times before heading out and don’t use inflatables at the beach – save it for the swimming pools!


RNLI Water Safety Education for schools


The RNLI saves lives at sea. But beyond the work we do on our lifeboats and beaches, we’re an active part of the community too.


In normal times, throughout the spring and summer, our Water Safety Education Volunteers and lifeguards would visit schools and children’s clubs to deliver exciting workshops, tailored to children from 3 years up to early teens, on staying safe at the coast and what to do in an emergency. Our volunteers have also invited children to our lifeboat stations and museums to get a hands-on insight into the world of lifesaving.


However, due to the pandemic, these lessons are now virtual – but our safety messaging is still as important! If you are interested in one of our trained volunteers or lifeguards giving a talk, visit our https://rnli.org/youth-education.


As part of the RNLI’s commitment to Water Safety, we also offer a range of classroom resources so teachers, families and clubs can run their own water safety sessions. The materials have been designed to be fun and engaging, combining videos, problem- solving activities and guided discussions. Not only will they get brains working, but the activities also pass on invaluable water safety advice. Find out more on our https://rnli.org/youth-education.


Swim Safe – Free Swimming Lessons


Swim Safe is a free, fun outdoor swimming session with fully qualified lifeguards and swimming instructors at select coastal and inland locations across the UK.


Many children love to swim – but swimming in the sea, rivers and lakes is very different to swimming in a pool. Swim Safe is a community-focused programme that gives children aged 7–14 an opportunity to learn how to be safe in and around open water.


The practical sessions are designed to help young people who can already swim 25m unaided to improve their swimming ability and feel more confident in the water. There are public sessions and sessions specially designed for schools.


To find out more, visit https://swimsafe.org.uk


How can you support the RNLI? If you want to keep the children entertained whilst also supporting a lifesaving charity, consider signing up for a Storm Force membership. For just £12 a year, your child will receive four issues of the Storm Force magazine, online access to our Crew Room with great activities and rescue videos plus a membership pack with crew bag, pencil case, stickers and more. You can join the Storm Force team by visiting our https://rnli.org/support- us/become-a-member/become-a-storm-force-member


We have plenty of ideas and resources for those who would like to fundraise for us. You can also make a donation at rnli.org/GoDonate


12 | Go to www.primarytimes.co.uk for thousands more great days out


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