THE RNLI has urged partygoers to stay safe ahead of Fatboy Slim’s show.
The DJ will play the first of two nights in Brighton this evening as he headlines On The Beach festival, 20 years after his Beach Boutique 2, which saw 250,000 revellers descend on the city.
Brighton RNLI is urging the public to respect the water and take care if they are heading to the coast this weekend and for other events this summer.
It stressed the need to check tide times and keep an eye on surroundings.
It said that for those who live further from the coast, it can be a real shock to see how quickly the sea comes in.
Brighton lifeboat operations manager Roger Cohen said: “We want to make sure everyone makes it home safe this summer.
“Water temperatures still feel on the chilly side if you’re not acclimated to sea swimming and even at the height of summer, cold-water shock is still a real risk for those who’ve not planned to enter the sea.
“Drinking alcohol can increase that risk so I’d strongly encourage people not to try to swim after a few beers.
“We really want everyone to have a great time this summer on Brighton’s beaches after a couple of years of lockdown and travel disruption but a great day out can quickly turn into a tragedy so please look after each other and if you see anyone in trouble in the water, call 999 immediately and ask for the coastguard.”
RNLI key safety advice is:
- Visit a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags
- Check the weather forecast, tide times and read hazard signage to understand local risks
- If you get into trouble "float to live" – lie on your back and relax, resisting the urge to thrash about
- Call 999 in an emergency and ask for the coastguard
For more information and advice about staying safe, visit https://rnli.org/youth-education/education-resources/videos/safe-near-the-water
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