Lifeguards will soon begin patrols at Budleigh Salterton, keeping young families and paddleboarders safe this summer.
The steep drop-off and hidden undertow in the waters can make it deceptively dangerous at the paddleboard hotspot, particularly for children and less confident swimmers.
The joint initiative, put in place thanks to East Devon District Council (EDDC) and RNLI, will now see two lifeguards on duty daily from 10am to 6pm, between Saturday 12 July and Sunday 7 September (the peak summer season).
The new lifeguard facility was craned into position on the beach today (Thursday 26 June) to serve as a base for the on-duty team, who will monitor the bathing area between the red and yellow flags and offer guidance on local conditions and hazards.
RNLI lifeguards provide a service on Exmouth, Sandy Bay, Dawlish Warren, Teignmouth and from 12 July on Budleigh Salterton
The charity’s trained lifeguards will help prevent accidents, offer rapid response in emergencies, and provide advice on how to enjoy the water safely.
The RNLI provides expert advice and guidance to local authorities and beach operators on risk assessment and management. This includes considerations such as environmental factors, water and beach usage trends, and the local infrastructure.
The charity was asked to provide a service on behalf of East Devon District Council, with support from the beach owner Clinton Devon Estates.
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