RNLI issues warning to West Sussex beachgoers as lifeguard season ends
The RNLI lifeguard season on beaches across West Sussex is due to come to an end this weekend.
Lifeguards will finish their service on Sunday, September 6, following a busy summer season.
The RNLI said its lifeguards have dealt with a high number of incidents during an exceptionally warm summer, carrying out rescues, providing first aid and casualty care, and reuniting lost children with their families.
They have also delivered water safety sessions in schools and helped with incidents in the sea.
The RNLI is urging people visiting the coast outside the lifeguard season to choose a lifeguarded beach where possible and follow water safety advice.
It said people who find themselves in trouble in the water should follow its Float to Live guidance.
This involves tilting your head back with your ears submerged, trying to relax and control your breathing, moving your hands and legs to help stay afloat and, once breathing is under control, calling for help or swimming to safety.
Sydney Horsted, RNLI lifeguard lead for West Sussex and Hampshire, said teams have ‘worked tirelessly this season’. during the UK’s hottest summer on record.
She added: “We have seen sustained high visitor numbers, particularly at Littlehampton East Beach, since the season started in May. It has been particularly challenging for the lifeguard team dealing with high numbers of incidents whilst also working outside in consistently high temperatures.
“I cannot thank them enough for their commitment to keeping the public safe over the last few months, showing exemplary resilience, professionalism and courage throughout.
“They have saved multiple lives, performed countless rescues and assists, provided high level casualty care to those in need, reunited multitudes of children with parents/guardians and dealt with all other incidents that come their way.
“As the lifeguard season comes to a close, we reflect with great pride on the work that has been done this year. Lifeguards will return again in Spring 2027, in the meantime if you see anyone in difficulty in the sea, dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”
The RNLI also advises people to remember its ‘phone, float, throw’ guidance if they see someone else in trouble in the water.
People should call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard, tell the person in difficulty to Float to Live, and throw them something that floats, such as a life-ring.
RNLI lifeboat stations will continue to operate as a 24-hour search and rescue service during the off-season, with 238 stations across the UK and Ireland.