Staying safe on the beach and in the inshore waters

26 August 2016

If you're planning to enjoy some time on the beach over the bank holiday weekend, be prepared by reading our information on staying safe on the beach and in Jersey's inshore waters.

Beach patrols

The RNLI Lifeguards patrol the western beaches including;

St Ouen
St Brelade
Greve de Lecq
Plemont

The RNLI's top tips to stay safe on the beach

Wherever possible, always swim at a lifeguarded beach
Always read and obey the safety signs, usually found at the entrance to the beach. These will help you avoid potential hazards on the beach and identify the safest areas for swimming
When on a lifeguarded beach, find the red and yellow flags and always swim or body board between them - this area is patrolled by lifeguards. If red flags are shown, the water is not safe to enter
Never swim alone
If you get into trouble stick your hand in the air and shout for help
If you see someone in difficulty, never attempt a rescue. Tell a lifeguard, or, if you can't see a lifeguard, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard

Check the tides and waves

always check the tide before you enter the water. If you are unsure, ask a lifeguard
be careful not to get cut off by the tide if you're walking along the shore
always make sure your children are not in danger from the tide when playing on the beach

Check the tide times and heights

Assess your sunburn risk

The local weather forecast includes a UV Index number. Over the bank holiday weekend it is forecast to be an Index of 6.

Assess your sunburn risk using our Solar UV Index
Keep cool with our hot weather safety advice

Check the Jersey weather forecast for the bank holiday weekend.