RESIDENTS heading out to Wirral's coastline are being urged to stay safe as the lifeguarding season draws to a close.

On Sunday, September 30 lifeguards will leave West Kirby, Moreton, Harrison Drive, The Plateaux and New Brighton (Perch Rock) ahead of autumn and winter.

Lifeguards at Leasowe Bay were removed on September 2.

RNLI community safety partner Chris Cousens said: "With the weather starting to turn colder as we head into the autumn and winter, and sea conditions becoming more challenging, we are asking people to take more care on the coast.

"With no lifeguards on duty we are reminding people that if they get into difficulty themselves, or they see someone in difficulty on the coast or at sea call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.

"Our volunteer lifeboat crews remain on call all year round, and are ready to assist 24 hours a day, but the best thing we can advise is that if you are heading to the coast please respect the water, check tide times online or locally and read coastal safety signs and follow the advice on them."

Lifeguards monitor sea conditions and set up appropriate flags, watch the people on the beach and offer safety advice both on the beach and in classrooms through RNLI education schemes.

Wirral RNLI lifeguard supervisor Ryan Jennings told the Globe: "Due to the hot summer this year there have been an increased number of incidents and rescues keeping our lifeguards extremely busy and proactive.

"We are proud to say they have dealt with multiple major incidents have in selfless, dependable and courageous manner, demonstrating how highly skilled our RNLI Wirral Lifeguard team are.

"Massive thanks to all of the Lifeguards, Lifeboats, Coastguard and other external agencies."