RNLI lifeguards will be back on three of Dorset’s busiest beaches over the two week Easter school holidays.

The increase in lifeguard cover at the Easter break comes in response to more people visiting the beach in the spring months – in part due to unseasonably mild weather.

Simon Crayfourd, RNLI lifeguard manager for Dorset, said: “The RNLI is delighted to be providing a lifeguard service on Bournemouth and Sandbanks beaches over the Easter school holidays for the first time this year, and we are grateful for the support we receive from Bournemouth Borough Council and Borough of Poole.

“Alongside the year-round service on Boscombe beach, this increase in RNLI lifeguard cover means beachgoers in Dorset have the option of three beaches in the week leading up to the Easter Bank Holiday weekend and the following week.”

Simon added the enhanced service was a result of the charity recognising that more people are taking part in water sports such as kite surfing and kayaking in the area, thanks to modern wetsuits allowing people to begin water-based sports earlier in the year, and more people are using the beach for recreation.

He said: “If the good weather we’ve recently enjoyed continues, it means we can expect a good number of families enjoying the region’s beaches.” Bournemouth and Sandbanks beaches will have RNLI lifeguard patrols from tomorrow until Sunday, April 15 from 10am until 6pm.

RNLI lifeguards will continue to patrol Boscombe beach throughout Easter and into the summer season, while on other Dorset beaches, RNLI lifeguards will begin their full summer season patrols from Saturday, May 5.

SWIM SAFELY

TheSE top tips from the RNLI can be followed by everyone planning a trip to the beach. By following this advice, the charity’s lifeguards hope people will have a great time at the beach while staying safe.

1. Swim at a lifeguarded beach.

2. Never use inflatables in strong winds or rough seas.

3. Check tide times.

4. If you get into trouble, stick your hand in the air and shout for help.

5. If you see someone else in trouble, tell a lifeguard.

If you can’t see a lifeguard, call 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard.