Visit West Cornwall

As of 2008 the RNLI now provide lifeguard cover on 14 of our most popular beaches. Every RNLI-lifeguard beach has been assessed to determine the appropriate number of lifeguards and the correct equipment. Lifeguards respond to medical emergencies both on land and in water and incidents up to 300m out to sea. Each RNLI lifeguard unit is a central point for public information as well as for the lifeguards to access first aid and rescue equipment.

Every year thousands of people get into real, life-threatening difficulty on our coasts. They may be washed out to sea, pulled under by a strong rip current, or simply get into the water when conditions are dangerous. To ensure you and your family don't put yourselves in danger please see below top tips to stay safe:

• Wherever possible, always swim at a lifeguard beach. Go to to www.goodbeachguide.co.uk to search for listings throughout West Cornwall.

• Always read and obey the safety signs, usually found at the entrance to the beach. These will help you avoid potential hazards on the beach and identify the safest areas for swimming.

• When on a lifeguard beach, find the red and yellow flags and always swim or bodyboard between them - this area is patrolled by lifeguards.

• Never swim alone.

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

• If you see someone in difficulty, never attempt a rescue. Tell a lifeguard, or, if you can't see a lifeguard, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.

Tides & Waves
When visiting the coast keep an eye on tides. Always check the tide before you enter the water. If you are not sure check with a lifeguard. Be careful not to get cut off by the tide when walking along the shore. Always ensure your children are not in danger from the tide when playing on the beach.

Never think it is safe to wave dodge. The sea is unpredictable and what looks like fun could end in tragedy with large waves taking you out to sea. Spilling waves are the safest to swim in. They appear when the top of the wave tumbles down the front. Dumping waves break with great force in shallow water. These are dangerous waves that usually occur during low tide. Avoid the sea when you see dumping waves.

For further information on beach safety and the RNLI lifeguards please visit www.rnli.org.uk

The beaches are generally covered from Whitsun until the second week in September. They are covered 7 days per week from 10am to 6pm. To achieve this cover some 44 lifeguards are employed during the season. The Static Equipment is checked fortnightly in the summer and monthly during winter. Static Equipment supplied on beaches covered by lifeguards is checked daily during the season. Cornwall Council still manages some 148 items of static rescue equipment.