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RNLI Lifeguards

Photo: Pacemaker Press Intl​

RNLI lifeguards starting patrolling beaches in 2001 following a successful pilot scheme. The trial project took place during the Summer of 2001 from May to September, operating in five local authority areas and covering 26 popular beaches in south-west England. Since then, it has grown with over 1,000 RNLI lifeguards patrol over 240 beaches around the UK including Northern Ireland.

 

RNLI lifeboat volunteers or search and rescue helicopter crews can respond to a situation within minutes and often save lives close to the shore. But, at the beach, every second counts.

 

For the best chance of survival, you need someone on the beach who can see the dangers develop: someone who can prevent accidents before they happen and respond instantly if they occur.

 

RNLI lifeguards are qualified in lifesaving and casualty care, highly trained, strong and fit. They must be able to swim 200m in under 3½ minutes, and run 200m on sand in under 40 seconds. However, a good lifeguard rarely gets wet - 95% of a lifeguard's work is preventative.

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

 

All of the RNLI lifeguards are equipped not only with the best training but the best equipment, so that they are able to deal with any situation. This includes:

  • inshore rescue boat (IRB)
  • rescue watercraft (RWC)
  • patrol vehicle
  • all-terrain vehicle (quadbike)
  • rescue board
  • rescue tube
  • VHF radio
  • binoculars
  • first aid responder bag
  • defibrillator

 

RNLI lifeguards in Northern Ireland

One of the first images of RNLI lifeguards in Northern Ireland. Photo Credit: RNLI

The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) has been a beacon of safety and rescue services along the beaches of Northern Ireland. Since its inception in 2011, the RNLI lifeguard service has significantly contributed to the safety and well-being of beachgoers along the picturesque Causeway Coast and beyond.

 

Expansion of Lifeguard Services
The RNLI launched its lifeguard service on seven beaches along the Causeway Coast in 2011. These beaches include:

  • Downhill

  • Castlerock

  • Benone

  • Whiterocks

  • Portrush East

  • Portrush West

  • Portstewart

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In 2012, the RNLI extended its services to three additional beaches in County Down, ensuring broader coverage and enhanced safety for visitors. These beaches are:

  • Cranfield

  • Tyrella

  • Murlough

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Further extending their reach, RNLI lifeguards began patrolling Ballycastle beach in 2017, providing their invaluable services to even more communities.

 

Impact and Achievements

Since the lifeguard services were introduced, RNLI lifeguards have made a remarkable impact:

  • Lives Saved: 48 lives have been saved, a testament to the quick response and dedication of the RNLI lifeguards.

  • People Aided: They have assisted 3,701 people through various critical interventions, such as water rescues, reuniting lost children with their families, and providing essential first aid and casualty care.

  • Incidents Responded To: Lifeguards have skillfully managed and responded to 3,290 incidents, showcasing their readiness and expertise in handling emergencies.

  • Preventative Actions: Over 1 million preventative actions have been carried out, highlighting the proactive approach of the RNLI to ensure the safety and security of all beachgoers.

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