RNLI issues water safety warning as temperatures rise across North West

The RNLI is urging people heading to the coast across the North West to take extra care as temperatures rise and spring tides increase the risk of people becoming stranded.

With hot weather forecast over the coming days, the lifesaving charity is reminding visitors to check tide times before travelling to the coast and to follow essential water safety advice.

Tirion Dowsett, Water Safety Delivery Support, says: 

‘Tide times and heights vary throughout the month, and the incoming tide can easily leave people stranded, requiring assistance. There will be spring tides over this coming week meaning a greater difference between low and high tide, therefore at high tide the water comes in further and can move faster than on smaller tides. 

‘On bigger tides, places will be cut off by the tide more quickly than normal and places usually unaffected by the tide may also be cut off.’

Spring tides can cause water levels to rise more quickly than expected, potentially cutting people off from the shore on beaches, sandbanks and coastal paths.

Anyone planning a trip to the coast is being advised to check tide times in advance and pay close attention to local warning signs.

People who are unsure how to interpret tide information should seek advice from those familiar with the area, including RNLI lifeguards where available.

Tirion added: 

‘It’s hard to imagine how walking near the coast can turn out to be such a dangerous activity, check the tide times at the start of your day, keep an eye out for the incoming tide and leave enough time to return safely.

‘Always carry a means of calling for help, like a fully charged mobile phone.

‘If you do get into difficulty, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.’

The charity is also reminding people that cold water shock remains a serious risk, even when air temperatures are high.

Entering cold water suddenly can cause an involuntary gasp response and rapid breathing, making it difficult to stay calm and increasing the risk of drowning.

Tirion continued:  

‘Cold water shock is a real danger, which we particularly want people to be aware of. The sea or open water may look inviting during hot weather, but it remains cold enough year-round to trigger cold water shock, which can cause uncontrollable gasping, increased heart rate, and can lead to panic and drowning very quickly. It’s best to enter the water slowly to gradually acclimatise. 

‘Anyone who finds themselves in danger in the water should fight the panic instinct and Float to Live – try to relax and float on their back, with head tilted back, gently moving their hands and legs to help them stay afloat. This buys valuable time to get your breathing back under control, before then calling for help or swimming to safety.’ 

The RNLI says the safest place to swim is at a lifeguarded beach, where visitors should remain between the red and yellow flags.

A number of beaches across Wirral and Sefton are now being patrolled by RNLI lifeguards full-time, with lifeguards on duty from 10am until 6pm.

Anyone visiting the coast during the warmer weather is encouraged to plan ahead, understand local conditions and avoid taking unnecessary risks around the water.

RNLI water safety advice

• Visit a lifeguarded beach wherever possible and swim between the red and yellow flags.
• Check weather conditions and tide times before travelling.
• Be aware of how quickly incoming tides can cut off beaches and coastal routes.
• If you get into difficulty in the water, float to live by tilting your head back with your ears submerged and trying to relax and control your breathing.
• If you see someone in trouble at the coast, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.

You can find your nearest lifeguarded beach here.