RNLI lifeguards are issuing a safety warning reminding people of how to enjoy their time on the coast safely this bank holiday weekend.

The region will experience large spring tides, which mean there will be extremely high tides in the morning and evenings, increasing water movement and the likelihood of tidal cut offs, the forecast is for sunshine with strong winds and medium to large surf.

The conditions, coupled with the number of people expected to be heading to the coast, the charity’s lifeguards are expecting it to be a busy one.

The RNLI are reminding people if you are heading to the coast to go to a lifeguarded beach, if you are swimming or bodyboarding do so between the red and yellow flags and if you do get into trouble remember to Float to Live.

The best way to float is to tilt your head back with your ears submerged.

Try to relax and breathe normally. You can gently move your hands to help you stay afloat if you need to. Spread your arms and legs out to improve stability – and it's OK if your legs sink, we all float differently.

Once your breathing is under control, call for help or swim to safety.

Guy Botterill, Regional Lifeguard Lead for the South West said: ‘We are expecting some warm weather and fairly rough conditions this Bank Holiday weekend and so it is imperative that if you are heading to the coast you follow the RNLI’s advice and head to a lifeguarded beach where our teams will be performing patrols from 10am-6pm each day.

‘If you are going swimming or bodyboarding, do so between the red and yellow flags as it is the safest place to do so. We hope everyone has an enjoyable and safe weekend on the coast.’ To find your nearest lifeguarded beach click here: Lifeguarded Beaches - Find Your Nearest Lifeguarded Beach (rnli.org)