LIFEGUARDS may have returned to New Brighton beach as lockdown eases ... but Globe readers are still urged to play their part in staying safe.

New protocols imposed through social distancing mean they may not be able to deal with some minor first aid cases but will support people to treat themselves.

A spokesperson for the RNLI added that lifeguards "will also try to keep socially distant from beachgoers, adopting different patrol methods at times, such as not using the red and yellow flags and asking people to keep apart but close to shore".

The charity's advice to anyone planning to visit the coast remains as follows:

  • Have a plan - check the weather forecast, tide times and read local hazard signage
  • Keep a close eye on your family - on the beach and in the water
  • Don't allow your family to swim alone
  • Don't use inflatables
  • If you fall into the water unexpectedly, FLOAT TO LIVE.
  • Fight your instinct to thrash around, lean back, extend your arms and legs, and Float
  • In an emergency dial 999, and ask for the Coastguard

Lifeguards are already operating on more beaches than initially expected by this date, with up to 40 more beaches due to have safety patrols this weekend, bringing the total operational to more than 80.

While there is already an operational lifeguard service on New Brighton and Crosby Beaches, a lifeguard service will also return to Ainsdale Beach this Saturday.

The RNLI's chief executive Mark Dowie said: "With schools closed and restrictions on foreign travel, we know that lots of people will be heading to UK beaches - this could be the busiest summer ever for both our lifeguards and our lifeboat crews.

"I'm very grateful to all those lifeguards who have already started their patrols or are now preparing to get back on the beach - they know this will be a challenging summer and are doing a brilliant job helping to keep the public safe during this pandemic.

"We must all continue to be aware that the risks from the pandemic have not gone away, but if people work with us and the other emergency services by following social distancing and other Government guidance relevant to their home country, we hope to be able to continue to provide lifeguard services this season.

"We'd like to thank all our partners - from Her Majesty's Coastguard, to local councils and landowners - who are also working hard to help us patrol as many beaches as possible."