RNLI Urges Jersey Residents to Stay Safe as Hot Weather Brings Crowds to Beaches

The RNLI is urging people in Jersey to take extra care around the coast as rising temperatures are expected to bring more visitors to the island’s beaches.

James Russell, from the charity, said warmer weather often leads to an increase in people heading into the water, but some visitors may underestimate Jersey’s strong tides and changing sea conditions.

Temperatures are expected to climb to 25°C on Thursday before a slight drop over Friday and Saturday. Forecasters predict warmer conditions will return, with temperatures reaching 26°C on Sunday and 27°C on Monday.

Russell said: “The heat encourages people to go out to the water, so we get more visitors on the beach. They might not be familiar with the huge tidal movements, and that can catch people out.”

He advised beachgoers to check tide times before heading out and encouraged boat users to follow safety guidance from Ports of Jersey.

For those using boats, kayaks or paddleboards, Russell recommended carrying a waterproof VHF radio so they can call for assistance if needed.

He also warned against using inflatables in the sea, as they can quickly be carried away by wind and currents.

“My biggest piece of advice is do not use inflatables on the beach,” he said. “Families should always go to a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags.”

RNLI volunteer Darren Pritchard, who moved to Jersey a year ago, said people experiencing problems at sea often tried to solve the issue themselves before calling for help.

He advised anyone dealing with a boat breakdown to seek assistance if they had been unable to resolve the problem after a short period of time.

“If you have spent more than an hour trying to self-recover, it is probably time to get on the radio and ask for some assistance,” he said.

Pritchard also reminded swimmers caught in a rip current not to fight against it by swimming directly towards the shore.

Instead, he advised people to swim across the current towards the left or right until they are clear of the flow.

Anyone who sees someone in difficulty in the water should call 999, he added.

“Do not get in the water yourself and do not try to save someone if they have got into trouble,” Pritchard said. “It is likely to be a difficult situation and you could end up putting yourself at risk as well.”