AS we are now approaching summer and holidays on the beach - whether home or abroad - we are issuing the advice about rip currents and how to stay safe on the beach.
Rip currents are fast-flowing bodies of water that can carry people and debris away from the shoreline and out to deeper water. It can rip at up to 4.5mph so it's not surprising that these dangerous currents are a major cause of accidental drownings across the world and account for many RNLI lifeguard rescues and incidents in the UK.
So, if you're visiting the beach this summer, choose a lifeguarded beach and swim or bodyboard between the red and yellow flags. That way if you get into trouble, our lifeguards can spot and reach you quickly.
If you do get caught in a rip current, if you can stand then wade, don't swim; if you can't stand, don't try to swim against the current, swim parallel to the shore until you're free of the rip, then head for the beach.
Raise your hand and shout for help.
For information visit RNLI.org/safety.
Tony Sayer
Chairman of the RNLI St Helens branch
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