22/05/2026
Tomorrow marks the return of our Beach Lifeguards for the summer season! 🌊☀️
Our lifeguards will be patrolling the beach throughout the summer half term, the summer school holidays, and weekends in between - helping to keep everyone safe while enjoying the coast.
Over recent weeks, the team has completed intensive surf lifeguard training at the lifeguard unit, Sidmouth Beach and Sidmouth Lifeboat Station. Training included both classroom learning and practical beach exercises covering:
🛟Lifeguard duties and procedures
🛟Beach environment, weather and tides
🛟Rescue techniques
🛟First aid and basic life support, including defibrillator use and treatment of major bleeds
During training, the team responded to a real-life emergency. Lifeguards carried out a primary survey, administered pain relief, and safely extracted the casualty using a stretcher before handing over care to the ambulance service.
Training was delivered by Surf Life Saving Great Britain trainer assessors, alongside Rhys John from Harlyn Surf School, and assessed by highly respected trainer Chris Rae, who has more than 35 years of experience in surf lifesaving training.
This season sees five returning lifeguards - including two entering their sixth year on patrol - alongside five new recruits. Four of the new lifeguards have progressed through the ranks at Sidmouth Surf Lifesaving Club, highlighting the strength of local training and development within the club.
The team also welcomed a volunteer trainer from the surf lifesaving club to complete the qualification course, helping strengthen the partnership between the club, the lifeguard service, and the wider community.
To continue building their skills, lifeguards also attended a three-day maritime casualty care course.
Please remember to stay safe on the beach this summer and speak to the lifeguards if you need any advice or assistance 🧡.
