RNLI statement following UK Prime Minster announcement on 10 May

Many people will want to visit the coast and participate in water-based activities such as swimming, kayaking, surfing, boating and angling. At present there are no RNLI lifeguards on beaches and although our volunteer lifeboat crews are fully operational, should they be needed, it is important that anyone visiting the coast understands the risk and takes the necessary steps to keep themselves safe. This will also help to reduce the demands placed on our lifeboat crews and other emergency services including HM Coastguard. In this way we can all work together to succeed in ensuring the coast is a safe place to visit. We would urge anyone planning a visit to the coast to follow RNLI safety advice: Take care near cliffs - know your route and your limitations Have a plan - check the weather forecast and tide times 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 If individuals are choosing to go sailing or yachting it is important to ensure that equipment is properly checked and serviceable before going afloat. In any coastal emergency dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard. Key facts about the RNLI The RNLI charity 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 over 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 142,700 lives. Learn more about the RNLI For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. News releases, videos and photos are available on the News Centre. Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or or by email.