We want everyone to be able to enjoy the water safely. A few simple steps before you take to the water can make a big difference.

Always check the conditions before you go.

Which way is the wind blowing? Is it helping to bring you back to shore, or pushing you out to sea? It’s a good idea to paddle out a short way and then check you can get back easily before you go too far. Remember the wind strength will be higher as you get further out, particularly if it’s an offshore breeze (i.e. it’s pushing you out to sea.)

What is the tide doing? The tidal flows and currents can carry you some distance and it’s hard to swim or paddle against them. So check before you go, and if in doubt, ask someone for advice.

Wear a lifejacket

No matter how good a swimmer you are, a lifejacket can make a huge difference if you finish up in the water. No only do they help you float, they make it much easier for the lifeboat crew to see you. So wear one. Please.

Take a means of communication with you

If you get into difficulty then you need to call for help. A mobile phone in a drybag can be used to call 999. Better still use a VHF radio (you do need a licence to use one.) If you need help, then the sooner you call, the sooner someone will be there

Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to get back.  If you are not back at the expected time, they should raise the alarm – better safe than sorry.  Call 999 and ask for Coastguard.  If there is any danger that we are losing light, call sooner rather than later – don’t wait until dark to worry.