Thank you to Ford who have commissioned tyres that leave messages on the sand such as 'float to live' and 'no inflatables' across large stretches of sand to warn beach goers this summer.
With over 40% of people admitting that when they have used an inflatable in the sea they have got into difficulty, this enables the RNLI to warn people quicker than before.
Guy Addington, Regional Water Safety Lead at the RNLI said:
“Spending the day at the beach or out on the water is a great way to have fun and stay active but it’s easier than you think to get into trouble. With record temperatures, we’ve seen high numbers of people at UK beaches this summer so it’s imperative that we continue to raise awareness of important water safety messages. We’re delighted that Ford is helping us continue our mission to spread these messages that can help save lives.
It is vital that anyone visiting the coast understands that the beach can be a dangerous environment and you must take responsibility for you and your family this summer. No one ever goes to the coast to be rescued yet RNLI lifeguards rescue 1000’s each year.”
2019 rescued over 29,000 people on the UK beaches and saving a total of an astonishing 143 lives. There were a total of 364 inflatable incidents during this year also. The RNLI is hoping next years figures will be a lot less. They kindly request that all beach goers plus parents to please take responsibility for themselves and their families and be aware of the dangers than can happen on the beach. Especially if children are in the sea with inflatables as currents can quickly become dangerous.
Ford is the official RNLI supplier with supporting their work and providing the RNLI with over 350 vehicles! This includes the Fiesta, EcoSport, Focus, Kuga, Transit, Transit Connect and the Transit Custom Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle.
Quote from Andy Barratt, Managing Director at Ford of Britain said:
“We’ve been delighted to continue supplying vehicles to the RNLI, and support the outstanding work they do to keep us all safe. It’s very exciting to see our Ford Ranger being used to spread these important water safety messages”
So the advice is,
- Have a plan - check the weather forecast, tide times and read local hazard signage
- Keep a close eye on your family – on the beach and in the water
- Don’t allow your family to swim alone
- Don’t use inflatables
- If you fall into the water unexpectedly, FLOAT TO LIVE. Fight your instinct to thrash around, lean back, extend your arms and legs, and Float
- In an emergency dial 999, and ask for the Coastguard
Stay safe!