Local lifeguards are backing a scheme to keep children safe at the seaside this summer.
Last summer in Pembrokeshire alone, there were 43 reports of missing children received by the RNLI lifeguards, and 526 across the UK. The RNLI and coastguards have teamed up to try and ease the problem by offering brightly coloured wristbands for children to wear while at the beach. Details of how to contact the coastguard are included on each wristband and parents can add their own phone number. The wristbands are available for collection at any lifeguard beach unit.
Chris Rigby, RNLI area lifeguard supervisor in Pembrokeshire, said: “Missing children is a common issue on our beaches. It is fairly easy to lose sight of your child, particularly on a busy day in the middle of the summer. “We advise that any parents using a lifeguarded beach should visit the RNLI lifeguard beach unit to collect the wristbands for their children.”
Milford Haven coastguard said missing children made up a significant amount of their call-outs, particularly during the summer.
Visit www.goodbeachguide.co.uk to find your nearest lifeguarded beach.
