THE RNLI has given its safety advice after its lifeguard patrols along the south west coast finished for the winter.

Henry Irvine, regional lifeguard lead, asked visitors to continue to take care and be aware of the dangers of the sea.

“If you visit a beach outside of the lifeguard season, never go alone,” he said.

“It’s vital that you have company who could get help, in the event of an emergency. Take note of safety signage at the entrance to the beach which will warn of the local risks and hazards, and if possibly speak to someone who might be local who might be able to also provide advice.

“Always check the weather and conditions and consider your capabilities, if in doubt it is better to stay dry and watch the sea than take the risk.

“You should always carry a means of contact such as a mobile phone, if you get into trouble or see anyone else in difficulty call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”

If you are cold water dipping, Henry said the RNLI ‘strongly advises’ that this is not done alone.

“As we get further into the winter months, and the temperature continues to drop, the risk of cold-water shock will increase. Make sure you do not stay in the water for a prolonged period, and that you have means of warming up afterwards.

“If you get into trouble in the water, Float to live. 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.”

The RNLI issued advice for what to do in a rip current, saying swimmers should not try to swim against it or they will become exhausted, and if they can stand then they should wade and not swim.

If possible swim parallel to the shore until free of the rip and then head for shore, and always raise hands and shout for help.

For more information, visit the water safety advice and tips page on the RNLI website.