Stay safe at the seaside

Hartlepool Borough Council’s beach lifeguards will be patrolling the beach at Seaton Carew throughout the school summer holiday period and will be on duty every day from 23rd July to 4th September from 10am to 6pm. There will be a limited lifeguard service at the Block Sands. When the red and yellow flags are flying the lifeguards are present. 

In the meantime – and at all times - people are advised to take great care by the sea, and throughout the summer they are reminded to be aware of, and follow, the following important safety tips:

• Follow any safety advice which the lifeguards give and take note of any beach safety signs.
• Swim where the lifeguards patrol – within the areas marked by the red and yellow marker flags, which indicate where it is safe to swim based on the sea conditions for that day.
• Never go into the water when the red flags are flying – it means it’s not safe to do so.
• Beware of rip currents – strong currents running out to sea which can take swimmers out of their depth very easily. People are strongly advised to choose a lifeguarded beach and always swim between the red and yellow flags.
• Be aware of incoming tides – the sea can come in very quickly and cut you off.
• Don’t use inflatables in the sea – the tides, currents and wind can easily carry you far away from the shore.
• Waves are very powerful – avoid piers, slipways and promenades when the sea conditions are rough.
• Think before you dive – be very careful when diving at any time and never dive into water with which you are not familiar – there may be hidden dangers such as rocks, currents or insufficient depth.
• Never swim on your own – you should have someone on hand in case you get into any difficulty.
• If you get into difficulty, float on your back, wait until you are calm then raise your arm and shout for help.
• If you see someone in difficulty in the sea, don’t enter the water – summon a lifeguard or call 999 and ask for the coastguard.

With some very high temperatures predicted over the coming days, wherever they are, people are reminded once again to take care to reduce their risk of heat-related illnesses, including:

• Keep hydrated with water and reduce your alcohol intake.
• Keep out of the sun between 11am and 3pm. If you do head outdoors, keep to the shade, apply sunscreen regularly and wear a wide-brimmed hat.
• Check regularly on family, friends and neighbours who may struggle to keep themselves cool and hydrated. 

For more advice on how to cope in hot weather visit www.nhs.uk and search for ‘heatwave’.

Councillor Bob Buchan, Chair of Hartlepool Borough Council’s Adult and Community-Based Services Committee, said: “Everyone enjoys time at the seaside but we want them to stay safe. Please remember these safety tips and make a point of always following the advice.”