Beach Safety

Every year thousands of people get into real, life-threatening difficulty on the coast. They may be washed out to sea, pulled under by a strong rip current, or simply get into the water when conditions are dangeorus. To ensure you and your family don't put yourselves in danger, the lifesaving charity, The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) have offered some essential beach safety tips.

Top Tips to Stay Safe

Swim at a lifeguarded beach where possible, between the red and yellow flags
Never use inflatables in strong winds or rough seas
Check tide times before you go
If you get into trouble, stick your hand in the air and shout for help
If you see someone else in trouble, tell a lifeguard. If you can’t see a lifeguard, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.

Those who can’t make it to a lifeguarded beach can take some basic steps to help keep themselves safe:

Find out about your chosen beach before you go at www.goodbeachguide.co.uk
Check weather and tides before you go
Read the safety signs at the beach entrance to make yourself aware of specific local hazards
If you get into trouble, stick your hand in the air and shout for help
If you see someone in trouble, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard but don't attempt a rescue yourself

For further information about beach safety please visit: https://rnli.org/

The following Council beaches have a seasonal RNLI Lifeguards Service, operating daily from 11am - 7pm during July and August:

Benone, Downhill, Castlerock, Portrush West, Portrush East, Whiterocks and Ballycastle