BCP Council has issued a warning ahead of what could be a very hot weekend this Saturday and Sunday. 

Thousands are expected to flock to the beaches, as well as attend numerous events and festivals, across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole. 

People visiting beaches across BCP are encouraged to follow the RNLI’s beach safety advice if entering the water. 

This includes choosing a lifeguarded beach where it will be signed with red and yellow flags showing where you can swim. 

It also says to check the weather and tide times before heading out into the water and, if you get intoi trouble, remember to float to live. 

This means to tilt your head back with ears submerged and try to relax and control your breathing, while using your hands to help you stay afloat and then call for help or swim to safety if you can. 

Councillor Millie Earl, deputy leader for BCP Council and portfolio holder for connected communities said: “With good weather on the cards, as well as some fantastic events taking place this weekend, including the Race for Life and Highcliffe Food Festival, it’s important that we all remember to respect and protect outdoor spaces.  

“In particular, if you are visiting the beach, please follow the RNLI’s advice to stay safe in the water.” 

Visitors to BCP’s Heathland spaces are reminded not to have barbecues near heathlands or clifftops.  

Electric BBQs are free to use on the seafront and disposable barbecues are only permitted on the beach from 6pm to 10.30pm.  

In Poole, barbecues are not permitted on Lake Pier beach or Hamworthy Park beach. 

Visitors travelling to Bournemouth by car are encouraged to use the Avenue Road Car Park (BH2 5SL) or Richmond Hill Multi-storey Car Park (BH1 1JD).  

Both car parks are just short walk to the seafront and are good options when areas closer to the beach become full.