Beach safety tips
Lifeguard patrols can't be on every beach. But with you by their side, your family can stay safe.
If you can’t make it to a lifeguarded beach, then read the RNLI safety advice below. Some simple steps can help you have a safe and enjoyable trip to the seaside.
Bookmark this page now so you'll always have quick access to the best tips and advice on avoiding beach dangers.
How can I stay safe on the beach?
Choose a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags
If you're in trouble in the water, float to live
In an emergency dial 999 for the Coastguard (UK) or 112 for the Coast Guard (Ireland)
How to float
Fight your instinct the thrash around
Lean back, extend your arms and legs
If you need to gently move them around to help you float
Float until you can control your breathing
Only then call for help or swim to safety
Lifeguarded beaches
When you’re heading to a beach, we urge you to respect the water and visit a lifeguarded beach. On a lifeguarded beach there are trained professionals to help keep you safe – they’ll be on hand if something goes wrong, in or out of the water. Follow safety advice to protect yourself and your loved ones – and you’ll help to reduce the demands placed on our lifeboat crews and other emergency services.
Use our find my nearest beach tool to find a lifeguarded beach near you. You can search by address, postcode, or you can use the map to look for the closest beach to you. There will be information on the dates and times the beach is patrolled by RNLI lifeguards, so you know the safest time to head down to the beach. There is also a weather forecast and tidal information.
You can also search on the Marine Conservation Society (UK) or Irish Water Safety (Ireland) websites to find information on beaches near you.
So now you’re ready to hit the beach there are a few important things to remember, whether lifeguards are on duty or not.
Beach flags and signs
Signs
When you arrive at the beach the first thing you might see is a sign giving you all the information about the beach you’re visiting. This includes important safety info on the hazards specific to the area. The signs generally use two different types of warning symbols. Do you know the difference?
Red and white prohibition sign
Do not enter the water at any time. Swimming and other water-related activities are not permitted.
No lifeguards sign There is currently no lifeguard service at this beach. You should exercise caution and follow all safety advice to protect you and your family
Flags
Red and yellow beach flag Lifeguarded area. Safest area to swim, bodyboard and use inflatables.
Black and white chequered beach flag For surfboards, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks and other non-powered craft. Launch and recovery area for kitesurfers and windsurfers. Never swim or bodyboard here.
Red beach flag Danger! Never go in the water under any circumstances when the red flag is flying.
Orange windsock Indicates offshore or strong wind conditions. Never use inflatables when the windsock is flying.
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