Ahead of the bank holiday weekend in England, Wales and Northern Ireland and with dry weather forecast for most parts of North Wales, the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) is urging anyone visiting the coast to be aware of the risks and to choose a lifeguarded beach.

In the South East of the country, the good weather will also coincide with some big surf conditions and dangerous rip currents which can quickly sweep even the strongest swimmer out to sea.

That’s why lifesaving charity the RNLI is encouraging people to take care of themselves, their families and their friends at the coast.

Nick Ayers, from the RNLI Water Safety team said: ‘RNLI lifesavers have been busy all summer long keeping people safe and responding to incidents at the coast.

‘The school summer holidays are nearly over but with more dry weather on the way over the bank holiday weekend, if you are planning on heading to the coast we recommend you choose a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags which is the safest area as it is constantly monitored by our lifeguards.

‘If you find yourself in trouble in the water remember Float to Live - lean back spreading your arms and legs like a starfish to stay afloat, control your breathing, then call for help or swim to safety.

‘And if you find yourself or see someone else in danger at the coast, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.’

Nick added: ‘Beaches can become very busy, especially during warm weather and we urge those with children to keep an eye on them on the beach and near the water’s edge.’

The RNLI’s key safety advice is:

- Visit a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags

- If you find yourself in trouble in the water, Float to Live - fight your instinct to thrash around, lean back, extend your arms and legs like a starfish, and float

- In a coastal emergency dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard

To find your nearest lifeguarded beach go to https://rnli.org/find-my-nearest/lifeguarded-beaches.