RNLI issues vital water safety advice as hot weather approaches

As the UK prepares for a spell of hot weather, the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) is urging the public to enjoy the coast and inland waters safely — and to remember a potentially life-saving piece of advice: Float to Live.

The call comes as forecasters predict soaring temperatures across the country, likely drawing thousands to beaches, rivers and lakes to cool off. But the RNLI has issued a stark reminder that while the air may feel warm, the water often remains cold enough to trigger cold-water shock, posing serious risks to swimmers and water sports enthusiasts alike.

Linda-Gene Byrne, RNLI Regional Water Safety Lead, stressed the importance of staying vigilant. She said:

“Heading to the coast or inland waters in good weather is a great way to relax and cool off – but the water can be dangerous. Air temperatures may feel warm, but water temperatures are cold enough year-round to trigger cold-water shock and while at sea, big waves and strong rip currents can overpower even the most experienced water users.”

To help people stay safe, the RNLI is promoting its simple but effective Float to Live technique — a method that has already helped save numerous lives.

“To stay safe, we would encourage you to choose a lifeguarded beach and always swim between the red and yellow flags,” Byrne advised.

“If you get into difficulty in the water, the single piece of advice we’re urging people to remember is Float to Live: Tilt your head back, with your ears submerged. Relax and try to breathe normally. Move your hands and legs to help you stay afloat if you need to. It’s fine if your legs sink – we all float differently.

“By doing this, you give yourself the chance to rest and recover your breathing. Once you’ve regained control of your breathing, you can call for help or swim to safety.”

The RNLI says the Float to Live technique has already helped around 50 people survive dangerous situations in the water — and they believe the true number is likely much higher.

“We know this advice saves lives,” Byrne said.

“To date, across the RNLI, we’re aware of around 50 people who have used the Float to Live advice to help themselves survive when in danger in the water – and these are just the cases we’re aware of. There may be many more. We’re calling on people to remember the advice, practice it and share it.”

What to do in an emergency

If you see someone in trouble in the water, the RNLI stresses that the correct response is to call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard. Attempting a rescue yourself could put you at risk as well.

As summer temperatures draw more people to the water, the RNLI’s message is clear: know the risks, follow the advice, and enjoy the water safely.

For more RNLI water safety tips and advice, visit RNLI.org.