RNLI lifeguards return to Somerset beaches for 2025 summer season

The RNLI works in partnership with local authorities and private beach owners each year to set up and roll out a lifeguard service, at their request.

RNLI lifeguards in Somerset have spent the last month pre-season training, which has included essential skills in casualty care, fitness testing, and lifesaving skills in and out of the water.

Brett Scofield, RNLI lifeguard supervisor for Sedgemoor says;

‘The lifeguards have spent the last few weeks going through inductions and training to make sure they are ready for the new season. They are excited to be back on the beaches doing what they do best, offering preventative advice and a top-quality lifesaving service.

‘We’d also like to thank Somerset Council who have been made it possible to provide the service for the peak summer season where lifeguards join alongside the beach warden service to keep the public safe.

‘As ever, we want people who are coming to the coast to enjoy themselves but to do so safely. It is our strong advice that people head to a lifeguarded beach, follow the advice of the lifeguards and pay attention to the flags or safety signage. The beaches of Burnham-On-Sea and Brean have extremely large tidal ranges that expose large mud flats and sinking sand, attempting to reach the water at certain times of the day can be very dangerous.’

Councillor Federica Smith-Roberts, Somerset Council’s Lead Member for Communities, said: “These are hugely popular beaches, attracting many visitors who may not be familiar with the Bristol Channel tides.

“It is so reassuring to have the RNLI lifeguards present and I would urge people to follow their advice and to heed any warnings.”

The RNLI is urging anyone visiting the coast this summer to make sure they keep themselves and their families safe by following beach safety advice:

· Visit a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags.

· Check the weather forecast, tide times and read local hazard signage to understand local risks.

· Keep a close eye on your family – on the beach and in the water – don’t allow your family to swim alone.

· If you fall into the water unexpectedly, FLOAT TO LIVE. Fight your instinct to thrash around, lean back, extend your arms and legs, and float.

· In an emergency dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI is the charity that 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 146,700 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.