RNLI provide safety advice as lifeguard season comes to an end in the south west

This Sunday (2 November) will see the RNLI lifeguard teams lower the flags for the final time this season, marking the end of patrols for 2025.

While lifeguards will remain on duty across 23 beaches this weekend (1-2 November) for those wishing to visit the beach under the safe watch of the RNLI lifeguard team, the lifesaving charity have reiterated safety advice for the winter months.

RNLI Lifeguard Lead for the south west Henry Saddler-Irvine said:

‘This weekend (1-2 November), we are anticipating some larger swell and potentially dangerous weather. We would like to remind people heading to the coast to choose from the 23 beach which are being lifeguarded throughout half term. Be sure to swim and bodyboard between the red and yellow flags, and if you are unsure of anything to ask an RNLI lifeguard.

‘As we move into winter, the RNLI is reminding people to stay safe when visiting the coast. The RNLI advises people to be aware of the conditions and hazards created by winter storms, always tell someone where you’re going and carry a means of communication for calling for help. If you see someone in trouble dial 999 and ask for the coastguard.[AL1]

‘As we enter the final days of the 2025 season, I’d like to commend our lifeguards for all their hard work, and also the lifeguard supervisors and training and technical staff who make sure our teams are best prepared every year to deliver a world-class lifesaving service. They have all done a phenomenal job this season.

‘I’d also like to thank the local authorities, private beach owners for whom we provide a service for and all our fundraisers and generous donors who make it possible for us to provide a lifeguarding service and keep people safe.

‘Finally, I wish everyone an enjoyable and safe half term weekend, and we look forward to seeing people back on the beaches in spring 2026.’

If you are still planning to go to a beach after Sunday 2 November, remember to carefully check weather and tide conditions and make sure you understand the impact of these, as conditions can change very quickly. There will be no lifeguards on any beaches. The RNLI advises the following:

If you are planning to swim:

• Avoid swimming alone: Consider joining a local swimming or dippers group.

• Acclimatise slowly: Enter the water slowly to allow your body to adjust. Never jump straight in.

• Stay within your limits: The colder it is, the less time you should spend in the water. Stay within your depth and know your limits.

• Be visible: Wear a brightly coloured swim cap and consider using a tow float to be more visible in the water.

• Warm up properly: Have warm clothes and a hot drink ready for when you get out of the water to help you warm up carefully.

If you get into trouble:

• Call for help: If you see someone in trouble, call 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard. Do not enter the water to attempt a rescue.

• Float: If you fall into cold water, don't panic. Fight the urge to thrash. Try to float on your back, control your breathing, and call for help.