The RNLI have announced that lifeguards will be patrolling eight South Hams beaches to guarantee safety to visitors.
From Saturday, July 7, RNLI lifeguards will begin at Blackpool Sands, Slapton Sands, Hope Cove, Thurlestone and Bigbury, to ensure families remain in safe hands whilst relaxing and enjoying themselves on South Hams’ beaches.
These beaches are now lifeguarded in addition to Bantham Beach, Challaborough Beach and Sedgewell Cove which have been guarded since May.
The beaches that will be patrolled are:
Bigbury-on-Sea North: July 7 – September 2, 10am-6pm daily
Blackpool Sands: July 7 – September 2, 10am-6pm daily
Hope Cove Beach: July 7 – September 2, 10am-6pm daily
Slapton Sands (Monument): July 7 – September 2, 10am-6pm daily
Thurlestone: July 7 – September 2, 10am-6pm daily
Bantham: May 5 – September 30, 10am-6pm daily
October 6-14, weekends only
October 20-28 (October Half Term), 10am-6pm daily
Challaborough: May 19 – September 30, 10am-6pm daily
Sedgewell Cove: May 5 – September 30, 10am-6pm daily
Rebecca Fox, RNLI lifeguard supervisor for the area, said: “With the recent hot weather, we urge visitors hoping to make the most of the sun to check that the beach they want to visit is lifeguarded, as we provide much greater safety for sunbathers, swimmers and water sports enthusiasts.
“We advise visitors coming to the area to always swim between the red and yellow flags. Please also keep an eye on the flags whilst swimming as weather and tide conditions can easily change.
“We want visitors to enjoy their time at our beaches but to respect the water at the same time. We advise you to check the tide times and weather conditions before arriving and to be aware of any local hazards at the beach.
“We encourage any visitors to please feel free to speak to the lifeguards on patrol for any advice.”