RNLI lifeguard patrols start at South Hams for busy summer season

RNLI lifeguard patrols have begun at Blackpool Sands, Slapton Sands, Hope Cove, Thurlestone and Bigbury. These beaches are now lifeguarded in addition to Bantham Beach, Challaborough Beach and Sedgewell Cove that have been lifeguarded since May.

Beaches patrolled are:

Blackpool Sands: 7 July – 2 September, 10am-6pm daily

Slapton Sands (Monument): 7 July – 2 September, 10am-6pm daily

Hope Cove Beach: 7 July – 2 September, 10am-6pm daily

Thurlestone: 7 July – 2 September, 10am-6pm daily

Bantham: 5 May – 30 September, 10am-6pm daily

6-14 October, weekends only

20-28 October (October Half Term), 10am-6pm daily

Bigbury-on-Sea North: 7 July – 2 September, 10am-6pm daily

Sedgewell Cove: 5 May – 30 September, 10am-6pm daily

Challaborough: 19 May – 30 September, 10am-6pm daily

Rebecca Fox, RNLI lifeguard supervisor for the area, said:

‘With the recent hot weather, we urge visitors hoping to make the most of the sun to check that the beach they want to visit is lifeguarded, as we provide much greater safety for sunbathers, swimmers and water sports enthusiasts.

We advise visitors coming to the area to always swim between the red and yellow flags. Please also keep an eye on the flags whilst swimming as weather and tide conditions can easily change.

We want visitors to enjoy their time at our beaches but to respect the water at the same time. We advise you to check the tide times and weather conditions before arriving and to be aware of any local hazards at the beach. We encourage any visitors to please feel free to speak to the lifeguards on patrol for any advice.’

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 142,700 lives.

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Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries

Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.