Lifeguards get set to patrol the beaches

Volunteer lifeguards are set to return to the beaches to help keep visitors to the coast safe.
Summer finally arrives on Wearside - Seaburn Beach RNLI lifeguard Michael GoodfellowSummer finally arrives on Wearside - Seaburn Beach RNLI lifeguard Michael Goodfellow
Summer finally arrives on Wearside - Seaburn Beach RNLI lifeguard Michael Goodfellow

The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) will be at their posts from 10am to 6pm from this weekend.

They will operate the life-saving service from Saturday until Sunday September 4 on beaches including Sandhaven in South Shields and Seaburn and Roker in Sunderland.

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RNLI Lifeguard Manager, Carl Harris, said: “Following a stringent training programme our charity’s lifeguards are in peak condition and they’re really looking forward to returning to their posts. Come rain or shine we’ll be there to offer friendly safety advice such as always to swim between the red and yellow flags and information on tide times.

“We always advise people to visit a lifeguarded beach. It’s great to see visitors enjoying the coast with the extra peace of mind of knowing that we are there should they need us.”

The lifeguard service will run in partnership with the local council.

The lifeguards on patrol have undergone extensive training to ensure they have the vital skill-set to enable them to deal with everything from locating missing children through to performing major first-aid and lifesaving rescues.

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Sunderland City Council Portfolio Holder for Public Health, Wellness and Culture, Councillor John Kelly said: “The reassuring presence of lifeguards helps make visits to our beaches an even safer and relaxing experience.

“Our partnership with the RNLI and their lifeguards is one we value, and one which ensures that Roker and Seaburn are great, safe places to swim and enjoy yourself.”

Lead Member for Area Management and Community Safety at South Tyneside Council, Councillor Moira Smith, said: ‘Sandhaven was recently awarded Blue Flag status and the Seaside Award, ensuring visitors the highest standards of water cleanliness and safety as well as high quality facilities.

“Having professional lifeguards on stand-by is an additional service to ensure that residents and visitors to our beautiful coastline can relax, knowing that trained people are on hand if needed.”