THE Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) is warning beach-goers to put safety first this Bank Holiday weekend. 

Steve Instance, RNLI senior lifeguard manager, says: "We are expecting beaches across the south west to be very busy this Bank Holiday weekend as people make the most of the last few weeks of the school holidays.

"We want people to enjoy our beautiful coastline, but make sure they do it safely.

"Conditions can change quickly at the beach, so it is really important to respect the water and take extra care when visiting the coast. 

"If you want to swim or bathe in the sea we would advise you do so at a lifeguarded beach. The red and yellow flags indicate the safest areas to swim and lifeguards keep watch over this area, so if you do get into difficulty raise your arm and call for help. 

"RNLI lifeguards are always happy to answer any questions or advise of any risks, including where any rip currents may be, which can catch out even the most experienced swimmers."

Chris Rundle, from Minehead RNLI, said: "The weather forecast for the weekend is looking good but we would always advise people to check the tide times. 

"We don't anticipate any problems this weekend, but if beach explorers are going to go walking around the cliffs, we would say make sure you can get back in time before the tide comes in. 

"Always tell someone where you are going and what time you are expected to come back."

If you intend to take part in activities on the water, such as kayaking, always wear a floatation device and carry a means of communication so you can raise the alarm if you find yourself in trouble.

The RNLI's advice if you get caught in a rip current is:

• stay calm – don’t panic

• if you can stand, wade don’t swim

• keep hold of your board or inflatable to help you float

• raise your hand and shout for help

• never try to swim directly against the rip or you’ll get exhausted

• swim parallel to the beach until free of the rip, then make for shore

If you spot anyone in difficulty at the coast ring 999 and ask for the coastguard.