I’m a lifeguard – urgent warning for Brits heading to the seaside this bank holiday weekend

A lifeguard has issued an urgent warning for Britons heading to the coast this bank holiday weekend.

Tarryn Brown, 37, revealed swimmers could put themselves in danger if they make a series of simple mistakes in the water.

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She told The Sun: “The most important thing is to only swim where there are lifeguards.”

“Water may look nice and calm, but there can be currents underneath and there is a risk of snagging.”

“We see it all the time when people go swimming in canals or bodies of water without a lifeguard and get into trouble as a result.

“In addition, you should only go swimming between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m., because that’s when lifeguards are on duty.”

The lifeguard shared with us her expert advice on staying safe in the sea as you head to the beach this bank holiday weekend.

Tarryn said, “The most important thing to remember when you get into trouble is ‘float to live’ – it saves lives.”

“If you’re having trouble, lie on your back, lie down like a starfish, and tilt your head back.

“It allows you to remain calm either until you have enough beer to swim to safety or until you are able to wave and call for help.”

She added: “Until you’re in the water you might not realize how dangerous it is. Water is very unpredictable.”

“If you see someone in danger on land, you should never go into the water yourself.

“If you go into the water to help someone who is in danger, they will most likely grab you. That puts you in danger.”

“You must stay ashore and raise the alarm. Call 999.”

While waiting for the lifeguard, tell the person in the water to assume Tarryn’s “starfish” position by swimming still in the water.

Then look for buoyancy aids or life rafts to throw in so they can hold on.

water chaos

Tarryn said, “The biggest mistake people make is thinking water looks safe and not understanding the conditions.”

“Since the weather has improved there has been a huge increase in the number of rescue operations because people think the water looks calm.

“Wind is also a danger. When the wind blows out to sea, it can pull you off shore.”

She added, “It’s really important not to take calm-looking water for granted.”

“Heat exhaustion and dehydration also put people at risk because they make poor choices.”

“People need to make sure they are staying hydrated and wearing sunscreen.

“If you think you’re getting too much sun, get in the shade, and if you’re not feeling 100% comfortable, don’t go in the water.”

It comes after an 11-year-old boy was swept into the sea before being sucked into a whirlpool and tragically drowning.

Another boy died after being pulled from a river when firefighters rushed after reports of youths in the water.