RNLI lifeguards begin lifesaving service across Brighton & Hove beaches for the first time

From Saturday 24 May, RNLI lifeguards will begin their lifesaving service across seven beaches in Brighton & Hove, marking the charity’s first-ever lifeguarding service in the city.

RNLI lifeguards will be on duty every day from 10am to 6pm on seven beaches across Brighton & Hove from Saturday 24 May, with three further beaches gaining lifeguards from 19 July. 

The beach lifeguard service was previously operated by Brighton & Hove City Council’s Seafront Office team. 

New lifeguard units

Ten beach lifeguard units have been installed by the RNLI from Saltdean to Hove Lagoon. 

These act as a base for the on-duty lifeguards, who are available to give water safety advice, and recommend the safer places to swim.  

Rigorous training

Ed Stevens, Regional Lifeguarding Lead for the South East, said: “Our lifeguards undergo rigorous training in water rescue, casualty care and water safety advice and are really looking forward to providing this lifesaving service on the famous beaches of Brighton & Hove over the summer. 

“We’re looking forward to building on the existing service that was provided by Brighton & Hove City Council, and will continue the positive relationship we have with the Seafront Office team.” 

Saving lives

Figures reveal that in 2024, RNLI lifeguards saved 15 lives, as well as dealing with over 1,930 incidents and assisting nearly 2,284 people in the south east of England alone. 

Tom Ward, Lead Lifeguard Supervisor for Brighton & Hove, West Sussex and Hampshire, said: “Our lifeguards have spent the last few weeks going through their inductions and training hard in preparation for the season ahead. 

“RNLI lifeguards have to maintain a level of fitness which allows them to swim 200m in under 3.5 minutes and run 200m on sand in under 40 seconds.

“If you are heading to the seaside in the coming weeks as the weather warms up and summer arrives, we strongly advise that you choose a lifeguarded beach.

“Speak to our lifeguards for advice and information on the local beach environment including tides, sea state and weather conditions.” 

Tom has further advice for beachgoers: “It’s important to remember that the water is still very cold at around ten degrees despite the warm weather forecast. 

“We ask everyone to be prepared for whatever water activity you have planned by always having a means of calling for help, and checking the weather forecast and local hazard signage to understand local risks.’ 

Dedicated

Councillor Birgit Miller, Cabinet Member, Culture, Heritage and Tourism, said: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with the RNLI to provide the lifeguard service on our busiest and most popular beaches. 

“The dedicated and fully trained RNLI lifeguards will be working alongside our regular seafront officers to help ensure the thousands of people who flock to our beaches this summer return home safe and happy.” 

When visiting the beach this summer remember:

• Visit a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags
• Keep a close eye on your family - on the beach and in the water - don't allow your family to swim alone.

If you fall into the water unexpectedly, FLOAT TO LIVE. Find out how here: Float To Live – What To Do In An Emergency – RNLI