Stay Safe by the Seaside in Eastbourne this Summer
19th July 2022
With the summer holidays upon us, people are being urged to stay safe when spending time at the beach.
Eastbourne Borough Council Beach Lifeguards, the Coastguard and Eastbourne RNLI are all joining forces to re-enforce the message about staying safe by the seaside and when walking along the coast or on the clifftop.
Visitors and residents are encouraged to look out for the flags displayed at the Lifeguard Station by the Wish Tower and only swim between the red and yellow flags along the coastline – and never enter the water if the red flag is flying.
In addition, people are being reminded to avoid getting cut off by the tide at the base of cliffs, following several incidents this year requiring rescues by the Coastguard. This put the individuals at risk of drowning, cold-water shock and chalk falling from cliffs above.
Some beaches are only accessible during low tide and once the tide comes in, it is possible to become cut off. Always check tide times before walking along beaches and stay away from the base of cliffs. For information on tide times visit https://www.tidetimes.co.uk/
Councillor Margaret Bannister, Eastbourne Borough Council’s Lead Member for Tourism and Culture, said, “Eastbourne’s beaches are absolutely stunning and are hugely popular with residents and visitors.
“But we need to make sure everyone stays safe when at the seaside. People should only swim between the red and yellow flags and remember never to swim if the red flag is flying.
“Pay particular attention to the flags before going into the water. Help us help you and you'll have a day out to remember.
“We also want to remind people that if they are setting off to walk along the cliffside beaches to always check the tide times first and ensure they are allowing enough time.
“Some beaches are only accessible during low tide and walkers can and do find themselves cut off by the tide and need to be rescued by the emergency services.
“Come and enjoy Eastbourne but be aware of the dangers of the natural landscape.”
For more information visit VisitEastbourne.com.