⚠️ RNLI Issues Urgent Safety Warning Ahead of Hot Weekend at Formby Beach

The RNLI has issued an urgent warning to anyone planning a trip to Formby Beach this weekend, as hot weather combined with strong offshore winds is expected to create potentially dangerous conditions along much of the North West coast.

With temperatures set to climb and thousands of people expected to head to the seaside over the weekend and into next week, the charity is urging visitors to think carefully before entering the water and to always choose a lifeguarded beach wherever possible.

Forecasters are predicting moderate easterly winds across the region. While they may not seem particularly strong on land, they will create offshore winds along west facing beaches such as Formby. These winds blow from the land towards the sea and can rapidly carry inflatables, paddleboards, kayaks and even inexperienced swimmers further away from the shore.

The RNLI is strongly advising people not to use inflatables or stand up paddleboards in these conditions, as they can very quickly be swept into deeper water and away from the safety of the beach.

Chris Cousens, RNLI Water Safety Lead for the North West, said:

“The forecast for the weekend and early next week is predicting moderate easterly breezes, which will mean offshore winds at west facing coastlines that can blow you out to sea. Using inflatables such as stand up paddleboards during these conditions is not advised, as they can very easily be swept away from the shore into deeper waters and away from the safety of the beach.”

“If you’re not sure whether it’s safe to paddleboard on the day of your visit, ask a lifeguard or seek local advice.”

He added that anyone using a stand up paddleboard should always wear an appropriate leash and a buoyancy aid, carry a mobile phone in a waterproof pouch on their person and know to call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard if they get into difficulty.

Cold water can still be deadly -

Although the weather will feel hot, the RNLI is reminding people that the sea remains cold enough to cause cold water shock. Entering cold water suddenly, or unexpectedly falling in, can make it difficult to breathe, trigger panic and dramatically reduce a person’s ability to swim.

The charity says many people instinctively panic, thrash around or try to swim immediately if they get into difficulty, but this can quickly lead to exhaustion.

Instead, the RNLI is urging everyone to remember its lifesaving Float to Live advice:

• Tilt your head back with your ears submerged.

• Relax and try to control your breathing.

• Move your hands and legs gently to help you stay afloat.

• Don’t worry if your legs sink, everyone floats differently.

• Once your breathing has recovered, call for help or swim to safety if you are able.

Chris Cousens added:

“We know huge numbers of people will be visiting the North West coast over the coming months and we want everyone to remember our Float to Live advice. By floating, you give yourself the chance to recover your breathing and greatly increase your chances of survival.”

RNLI lifeguards on duty at Formby

The warning comes as RNLI lifeguards are now providing daily patrols from 10am until 6pm at Formby Beach, as well as Crosby, Ainsdale and Southport beaches throughout the busy summer season.

RNLI lifeguards are there to offer safety advice, provide first aid and respond quickly to emergencies. Visitors are encouraged to swim and paddle between the red and yellow flags where lifeguards are present.

As the warm weather continues, the RNLI is asking everyone to enjoy the coast responsibly, respect the conditions and never underestimate the power of the sea.

If you see anyone in difficulty in the water, call 999 immediately and ask for the Coastguard.