If you're visiting the the beach before lifeguards are on duty, remember the following safety advice:

• No lifeguards = no swimming: don't go in the sea
• Until the Lifeguard service is in operation the only place you should swim is your local pool.
• Don't play anywhere near the shoreline if the sea is rough
• If waves are making a big splash on a promenade then STAY AWAY!
• Always make sure you're with an adult at the beach
• Young surfers should only surf as part of organised groups

Water is dangerous, so always stay SAFE when you're near the water...

1. Spot the dangers

the cold, rocks, waves, currents, boats, surfboards...

2. Always go with an adult

if you go alone there's no one to help you if you get into trouble - always go with an adult...

3. Find safety information

from signs, flags, posters, leaflets, lifeguards.

	Always swim between the red and yellow flags - that's where the lifeguards are watching you!
	Never swim where you see black and white flags - this is an area for surfing only and will be dangerous to swim in
	Never swim where you see a red flag - red means DANGER! If there are no lifeguards then you shouldn't go in the water.

4. Emergency? Learn how to help

NEVER jump in the water to save someone - you could end up needing to be rescued yourself!

If you spot someone in danger:

• Shout for help
• If you are able, reach out to them with a stick, rope, or clothing and pull them in. Make sure to lie down on the ground so you don't get pulled into the water. Alternatively, try and throw them something which will float like a lifering, ball or empty pop bottle with the lid on.
• If no one arrives to help, use your mobile phone or go to the nearest phone box and phone 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard. Tell them where you are (if you are in a phone box it will have an address written on the information panel) or describe to them where you are and explain what has happened.
• Wait for help to arrive. If you have got the person out of the water try and keep them out of the wind and put layers of clothing round their body and head.

If you are in trouble in the water:

• Raise one arm, and shout for help
• Try to keep your head out of the water
• If you are being dragged out to sea, try to swim in line with the shore until you are free from the current
• Keep hold of anything that floats