After a busy summer keeping the public safe along the Hasting, Bexhill and Rye beaches, Royal National Lifeboat Institution lifeguards have finished their weekend-only patrols

After a busy summer keeping the public safe along the East Sussex coastline, Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) lifeguards finished their weekend-only patrols.

We have had a very busy season in East Sussex, with hot weather and numerous visitors who have enjoyed the summer on our local beaches. Our lifeguards have spoken to thousands of people, letting them know about beach and water safety and how to stay safe and well in the sun. They have done amazing work keeping our beaches safe and trained intensely to ensure they stay in top condition and are physically ready for the service.

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During their service, the lifeguards, who have worked with council coastal officers and Bexhill and Camber beach patrol staff, have dealt with missing children, minor and lifesaving first aid incidents, and responded to rescues. They anticipated situations and intervened as soon as possible because 95% of a lifeguard’s work is preventative. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all our lifeguards for their professionalism, hard work and dedication they showed this season.

We are reminding people to take extra care when heading to the coast during the coming months. The water temperature will drop significantly, so always wear appropriate personal protective equipment, check tides, weather, and sea conditions; and consider how might these factors affect your planned trip. Additionally, take the time to read the safety signage at the entrance of the beaches for any localised hazards.

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If you get into difficulty, or if you see someone in difficulty on the coast or at sea, dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard. The RNLI's volunteer lifeboat crews remain on call 24/7 all year round and will be tasked to assist in an emergency, but it is always best to assess the risks before heading to the coast so that you will stay safe.

The lifeguards will be back for the 2023 service in time for the Easter holidays on Camber Sands, followed by the other East Sussex beaches returning in a phased approach. Until then, no off-season service will be operating in the region.

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