RNLI warns swimmers not to get caught out by tide

The RNLI in Jersey is warning islanders to check tide times and visit lifeguarded beaches amid hot weather.

James Russell, from the charity, said warmer weather naturally brought people to the water which meant an increase in problems.

Temperatures are forecast to reach 25°C (77F) on Thursday before cooling slightly on Friday and Saturday, according to Jersey Met. It is then forecast to rise to 26°C (78.8F) on Sunday and 27°C (80.6F) on Monday.

Russell said: "The heat encourages people to go out to the water so we get more visitors on the beach. They might not be very familiar with the huge tidal movements... so that can catch people out."

Russell advised people to check the tide times on the government website and boat owners were urged to use the Ports of Jersey checklist.

"If you're out on a boat, paddleboard or kayak, a VHF radio in a waterproof pouch is perfect because that will always be able to call for help," he said.

"My biggest piece of advice is do not use inflatables on the beach... [they] can easily be pushed out by the wind very quickly.

"Families should always go to a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags."

Darren Pritchard, an RNLI volunteer who moved to Jersey a year ago, said people experiencing a boat breakdown often tried to fix the problem themselves but he added help was available.

"I would say if you spent more than an hour trying to self-recover, it's probably time to get on the radio... and ask for some assistance," he said.

He advised anyone who got stuck in a rip current not to try and swim against it but instead "swim out across the rip, left or right basically, following the shore".

People who spot others in trouble should call 999, he added.

Pritchard said: "Don't get in the water yourself, don't try and save someone if they've got into trouble.

"It's likely a difficult situation and you're probably going to get yourself into difficulties as well."

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