Beach Patrols 2023

Beach Patrols 2023

RNLI lifeguards in Jersey have ended their patrols of the beaches ahead of the winter season.

Henry Irvine, Regional Lifeguard Lead, said those taking to the ocean should continue to stay safe and "be aware" of water dangers.

"If you get into trouble in the water, Float to Live," he said.

"Tilt your head back with ears submerged and try to relax and control your breathing - use your hands to help you stay afloat and then call for help or swim to safety if you can."

Further RNLI safety advice can be found online.

RNLI Jersey lifeguards dealt with 329 incidents, aided 390 people and saved one life in 2022.

Float To Live

• Lean back, using your arms and legs to stay afloat
• Control your breathing Call for help or swim to safety
• In a coastal emergency, call 999 or 112 for the Coastguard.

Planning a visit to the coast?

Please remember and follow safety advice:

• Have a plan – check the weather forecast, tide times and read local hazard signage
• Keep a close eye on your family – on the beach and in the water
• Don’t allow your family to swim alone
• Don’t use inflatables
• If you fall into the water unexpectedly, FLOAT TO LIVE. Fight your instinct to thrash around, lean back, extend your arms and legs, and Float
• In an emergency dial 999, and ask for the Coastguard

Beach patrols

The RNLI lifeguards started their first season on Jersey's beaches on 28 May 2011. They patrol the western beaches on Jersey.

The majority of the lifeguards live in Jersey and have now worked on Jersey's beaches with the RNLI for several seasons.

Education & Prevention

As part of the preventative and educational aspects of their role, the lifeguards visit local schools to deliver vital beach safety education. They are also involved in the RNLI's Swim Safe programme which teaches children aged 7-14 how to stay safe in and around coastal and open waters. Details on the Swim Safe programme can be found here. 

For beach safety information please click here and for information about rip currents, click here.