RNLI lifeguards return to Lincolnshire beaches

Lifeguards will return to patrol beaches in parts of Lincolnshire from this weekend.

RNLI staff will start daily operations between 10:00 and 18:00 BST at Skegness and Mablethorpe from 23 May.

From 11 July, Sutton-on-Sea will be added with all three beaches being patrolled daily until 9 September.

RNLI Lead Lifeguard Supervisor Ted Morgan said: "After completing their pre‑season training, our lifeguards are ready and excited to return to the beach.

"This year marks 25 years of the RNLI lifeguard service, and we're encouraging everyone to visit a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags so they can enjoy the coast safely."

In 2024, three RNLI lifeguards saved the life of a three-year-old child after she suffered a seizure on Mablethorpe Beach.

East Lindsey District Council leader Craig Leyland thanked the lifeguards "for the invaluable service they provide along the Lincolnshire coast".

"The lifeguarded beaches at Skegness, Mablethorpe and Sutton-on-Sea provide reassurance and safety for the thousands of visitors who flock to the Lincolnshire coast and our Blue Flag beaches each summer," he said.

This week the rescue charity launched its Float to Live campaign, which encourages people to tilt their heads back and use their hands and legs to stay afloat if they get into trouble in the water.

Bob Taylor from Bridlington RNLI said: "Instinctively, most people who find themselves struggling in the water will begin to panic, swim, or thrash about.

"We're urging people to ignore this instinct and remember to float: Tilt your head back, with your ears submerged.

"Relax and try to breathe normally. Move your hands and legs to help you stay afloat if you need to. It's fine if your legs sink, we all float differently.

"By doing this, you give yourself the chance to rest and recover your breathing. Once you've regained control of your breathing, you can call for help or swim to safety."

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