Sandymouth and Crooklets beaches will have RNLI lifeguard patrols from tomorrow (Saturday May 15).

The charity’s lifeguard service has been running on some beaches since Easter and now 31 more beaches in the South West will begin operations, to reflect the increase in visitors and local beach-users.

The beaches in Cornwall are; Seaton, Poldhu Cove, Kennack, Gyllyngvase, Crantock, Great Western, Tolcarne, Porth, Portreath, Chapel Porth, St Agnes, Perran Sands, Holywell Bay, Gadrevy, Gwithian South, Upton Towans, Beach View, Mexico Towans, Porthminster, Gwenver, Porthcurno, Porthcothan, Booby’s, Trevone, Trebarwith, Black Rock, Crooklets and Sandymouth.

The beaches beginning RNLI lifeguard operations in Devon are; Challaborough, Westward Ho! and Sandymere.

The RNLI urges anyone planning to enter the water, to always visit a lifeguarded beach during the operational hours of 10am-6pm, and to swim between the red and yellow flags.

Kitty Norman, RNLI Water Safety Coordinator said: “It’s important to always plan ahead for your day at the beach and come prepared. Speak to the RNLI lifeguards who have a wealth of local knowledge and expertise. They will set up the beach according to the conditions and will always put the swim-zone (between the red and yellow flags) at the safest part of the water.”

The RNLI lifeguards have been busy training in casualty care and water-rescue skills, ready for the summer months ahead. Rip currents are a big danger on our beaches and are one of the most common incident lifeguards deal with.

Steve Instance, RNLI Water Safety Lead in the south west, says: “A rip current is a strong flow of water that can appear suddenly and quickly sweep bathers out of their depth causing panic. It’s important to read any local signage about the location of rip currents and to understand that information. If you are ever unsure about rip currents and where they are located you should always speak to the lifeguards.”

If you ever find yourself caught in a rip current, try to remember the following key safety advice:

• Don’t try to swim against it, you will quickly get exhausted

• If you can stand, wade don’t swim

• If you can, swim parallel to the shore until free of the rip and then head for shore

• If you can’t swim – FLOAT to live by leaning back in the water, extending your arms and legs, and resisting the urge to thrash around to gain control of your breathing

• Always raise your hand and shout for help

• If you see anyone else in trouble, alert the lifeguards or call 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard.

To find your nearest lifeguarded beach visit https://rnli.org/find-my-nearest/lifeguarded-beaches