Attempts by the RNLI to run a lifeguarding service at Bexhill this year have been frustrated by a shortage of candidates. Like many other businesses, the institute is struggling to find folk willing to do the work, and this despite plenty of local advertising and leafleting both in Bexhill itself and in neighbouring towns. There has been an online presence and even recruitment fairs: all to no avail.
The only possible outcome has been that the RNLI has had, with regret, to inform Rother District Council that the lifeguard base will not be able to function at Bexhill-on-Sea for this year. Camber Sands will continue to be served by lifeguard service as has become usual. Because of its commitment to water safety and saving lives, the RNLI aims instead to have a face-to-face team on Bexhill beach throughout the season to provide advice. At the height of the summer Rother District Council coastal officers and beach patrol will, however, be in place along the seafront offering first aid and sea safety advice, and raising appropriate sea safety flags when according to the weather.
Councillor Hazel Timpe, lead councillor for neighbourhood services, tourism and the joint waste contract at Rother District Council, said: “While we’re obviously disappointed with this outcome, we know that the RNLI has made huge efforts to try to recruit the lifeguards and it is unfortunate that they have not been able to fill these posts.
“Our own council staff will continue to play their part in promoting beach and water safety, and I’m pleased that the RNLI is looking at providing a face-to-face team to give sea safety advice to our residents and visitors when they visit Bexhill seafront”.
The RNLI is always keen to emphasise the importance of beach safety and highlights these key safety suggestions:
- Swim at a lifeguarded beach, if available.
- Call 999 or 112 in an emergency
- Float to Live
- Know the risks and what to do
- Know your flags
Image Credits: Kt bruce .
Didnt need the RNLI when I ran Rother beaches.