Formby Beach will have no RNLI lifeguard patrols after this Sunday

Anyone planning to visit Formby Beach over the coming weeks is being urged to take extra care, as RNLI lifeguard patrols at Formby will finish for the season after this Sunday, 6th September.

Sunday marks the end of the peak RNLI lifeguard season across the North West, meaning Formby Beach will no longer have lifeguard cover from Monday 7th September.

RNLI lifeguard patrols will also finish at Southport and Ainsdale after Sunday, while Crosby Beach will continue to be patrolled throughout the year.

The RNLI is reminding people that beaches can still be extremely busy during fine weather in September and autumn, but anyone entering the sea at Formby after this weekend will be doing so without the usual lifeguard patrols.

Visitors are being advised to check weather conditions and tide times before heading to the coast and to pay close attention to safety signs at beach entrances.

People should avoid entering the water alone and should always carry a means of contacting the emergency services. If conditions look unsafe or you are unsure of your ability, the RNLI advice is to stay out of the water.

Extra caution is particularly important as we move into autumn and winter, when stronger winds, bigger waves and rip currents can make conditions more dangerous.

If you are caught in a rip current, do not attempt to swim directly against it. If possible, swim parallel to the shoreline until you are clear of the current before making your way back towards the beach.

Anyone who gets into difficulty in the water should remember the RNLI’s Float to Live advice. Tilt your head back with your ears submerged, relax, control your breathing and use your hands to help you stay afloat before calling for help or swimming to safety if you are able.

In an emergency at Formby Beach, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.

With RNLI lifeguard patrols ending at Formby after Sunday, please make sure family and friends who regularly visit the beach are aware of the change.