RNLI lifeguards have returned to the region’s beaches as daily patrols for the summer season get underway.  

Rob Stuteley, RNLI Lead Lifeguard Supervisor for south east Cornwall, said: ‘We urge beachgoers to head to an RNLI lifeguarded beach and to swim in the supervised area between the red and yellow flags. If you are planning on getting in the water, it’s worth remembering that the sea temperature is still cold so it’s important people wear a suitable wetsuit. Try and stay within your depth and follow the lifeguard’s advice. If you get into trouble, stick your hand in the air and shout for help. It is also very important to check the tide times before setting out and always carry a means of calling for help in case you should get caught out.’

If you see someone in trouble, tell a lifeguard, or if you can’t see a lifeguard, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

Lifeguards will be on duty from 10am to 6pm daily. Patrols across the region will start on individual beaches at different dates between now and July. They took up their posts on Tregonhawke, Sharrow and Tregantle beaches on May 4 and will start patrols at Seaton on May 18.