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Lifeguards will be patrolling Weymouth beach during the Easter holidays.
RNLI lifeguards began their patrols this weekend on major south west beaches, including Weymouth, where they will patrol from 10am to 6pm.
Patrols on other beaches will return for the summer on Saturday April 30.
Over the past two weeks RNLI lifeguards have been busy with their pre-season inductions where they brush up on their skills in casualty care, in and out of water rescue techniques, boating operations and land and fitness tests.
Guy Botterill of the RNLI said: “In a year when travel restrictions were in place and the area was incredibly busy with tourism, official RNLI statistics show our rescue teams handled more incidents and helped more of people.
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“The return of RNLI lifeguards for the Easter holidays is always a welcome sign and a signal that summer is near. Our teams across the South West have been working hard over the winter to ensure beaches and units lifeguards are fully equipped and our lifeguards are trained to the highest standard.
“Pre-season preparations are well advanced and our lifeguards are eager to get back to the beaches and do what they do best – offer pre-emptive safety advice to visitors and rescue those in difficulty in the water or on the beach itself.
“We’re hoping for good weather, but it’s important to remember that the water is usually coldest at this time of year, increasing the risk of cold water shock.
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“Also, the winter weather may have changed the conditions at your local beach, so it’s important to familiarize yourself with all the hazards.”
Figures reveal that in 2021, RNLI lifeguards covering the South West handled 11,216 incidents, assisted 13,664 people and saved 57 lives.
Compared to 2019, the last full season unaffected by Covid restrictions, RNLI lifeguards handled 10,527 incidents, assisted 13,069 people and saved 69 lives.
Mr Botterill added: “We urge people to visit one of our 23 RNLI patrolled beaches over Easter and speak to lifeguards to find out about local hazards, tides and weather conditions.
“Be ready for any water activity you have planned and always have a way to call for help. We wish you a happy and safe Easter.”
