Lifeguards to patrol daily at Le Braye during half-term

Saturday 26 October 2024

Lifeguards to patrol daily at Le Braye during half-term

Saturday 26 October 2024

Lifeguards are due to patrol St Ouen’s Bay over the half-term holidays to help protect the increasing number of people using the beach in colder months.

Islanders heading to the coast are also being advised to head to a lifeguarded beach and to check weather and tide conditions before they set off.

From Saturday 26 October to Sunday 3 November, RNLI lifeguards will be on duty at Le Braye beach from 10:00 to 17:00.

The patrols aim to protect beach users during a time when sea conditions can be more challenging, with bigger swells and spring tides expected due to autumn storms.

RNLI Lead Lifeguard Supervisor for Jersey, Aaron White said: “Half-term will likely see more people heading to the coast so we’d like to remind people that if you are wishing to visit a beach, head to Le Braye where lifeguards will be on duty.

“Remember to swim and bodyboard between the red and yellow flags, and if you’re unsure about anything to ask an RNLI lifeguard. “

“If you do find yourself in trouble in the water, remember the RNLI’s advice to not panic and 'Float to Live'.

“Lie flat on your back with your arms outstretched, lean back with your ears submerged and allow your body to adapt to the water.”

The charity said anyone visiting the coast should make sure they keep themselves and their families safe by following beach safety advice found online here.

ADVICE...

Learn how you can keep you and your loved ones safe at the coast and in the water with advice from the RNLI’s water safety experts...

Float to Live: If in trouble, lie on your back, extend arms and legs, control your breathing, and call for help.
Check Conditions: Always check the weather and sea conditions before heading to the coast.
Activity Safety: Get specific safety advice based on the water activity you're doing, such as kayaking or surfing.
Know the Risks: Be aware of potential dangers like cold water shock, strong tides, and hidden hazards.
Beach Safety: Visit lifeguarded beaches whenever possible, and follow posted safety signs.
Emergency Preparedness: Know how to call for help in an emergency and ensure you have the right equipment.
Respect the Water: Understanding the dangers of the sea can help prevent accidents.

With more islanders taking up cold water sea swimming, local swim coach and first aider Nicky Holgate-Smith shared her top tips on how to stay safe in the water during the colder months earlier this year...

Cold shock:

Cold shock is your body's immediate reaction to cold water
It usually lasts between 30 seconds to two minutes
To manage this, enter the water slowly, focus on calm breathing, and maintain a normal breathing pattern
Talking or singing can also help

Swim failure:

Swim failure can happen after a few minutes in cold water (15°C or below) and affects your ability to swim and breathe
Signs include panic, shortness of breath, hyperventilation, and difficulty holding objects
If this happens, reassure the swimmer calmly, help them out of the water quickly, and treat for hypothermia

Hypothermia:

Hypothermia occurs when body temperature falls below 35°C, with severe cases below 30°C
Watch for difficulty in dressing, answering questions, or slurred speech after leaving the water
If hypothermia is suspected, call emergency services, warm the person gradually, and monitor them
If unconscious and breathing, use the recovery position

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