Lifeguards are back
LIFEGUARDS have returned to a popular Tyneside beach to help keep the public safe but people are still be urged to take care as other areas remain without patrols.
The RNLI has started rolling out its lifeguard service across the country and patrols started at Longsands beach in Tynemouth on Saturday.
The charity says that, despite the challenges posed by coronavirus and social distancing, it hopes to provide lifeguard patrols on around 30% of the beaches it usually covers in time for the traditional peak summer season.
Tynemouth Longsands was chosen as the first beach to get lifeguards following an extensive risk assessment, taking in overall visitor numbers and the high number of lifeguard rescues and interventions in previous seasons.
They also took other factors into consideration such as specific geographical and sea features, as well as other rescue services like coastguard and RNLI lifeboat stations.
In due course, it will be confirmed which other areas will get lifeguard patrols.
Since the easing of lockdown restrictions, the RNLI has focused on re-establishing the infrastructure needed for the service.
During a normal summer, this includes recruitment, training, and the ordering and distributing of equipment and facilities to beaches.
The charity says the pandemic made the task more complicated. This year, it has to ensure lifeguards are equipped with appropriate PPE and have received training in new operating procedures.
Lifeguards will wear PPE similar to ambulance crews in some situations. New protocols for all first responders mean they may not deal with some minor first aid cases but will support people to treat themselves.
They will also try to keep socially distant from beachgoers, and may need to adopt different patrol methods at times, such as not using the red and yellow flags and asking people to keep apart but close to shore, to help keep people safe while maintaining social distancing.
Darren Lewis, RNLI lifesaving manager, said: “As ever, the welfare of our staff and beach visitors along with our commitment to providing a responsible lifesaving service is the RNLI’s priority and so we have been working closely with North Tyneside Council to make sure that conditions are safe for our lifeguards to provide an effective service.
“Our lifeguards have a vital role in making sure visitors to the beach are aware of their surroundings, the potential dangers at the beach and providing a lifesaving rescue service should anyone get into trouble.
“We would encourage the public to follow the Government’s advice on social distancing and take care to understand the risks at the coast and the necessary steps to keep themselves safe.”
Coun Carl Johnson, the council’s cabinet member for environment and transport, added: “The health and safety of our residents is our main concern. We are pleased the lifeguard service will be returning to Longsands this weekend, but as the Government guidance hasn’t changed, we would still encourage people to stay home wherever possible. Amenities, such as public toilets, remain closed.”
Anyone planning a visit to the coast should follow this RNLI advice:
l Have a plan - check the weather forecast, tide times and read local hazard signage l Keep a close eye on your family l Don’t allow your family to swim alone and don’t use inflatables
l If you fall into the water unexpectedly, fight your instinct to thrash around, lean back, extend your arms and legs, and float
l In an emergency dial 999, and ask for the coastguard