RNLI issues single piece of life-saving advice as hot spell hits Somerset

Paul JonesAugust 12, 20250 Comment0

AS SOMERSET braces itself for some of the highest temperatures of the summer – as the summer holidays get into full swing – people heading to the seaside are being offered advice that might save their life.

The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) has warned of the dangers of the coast as thousands turn to the sea for cool amid heat health alerts in place for parts of the UK this week.

The charity has urged people to remember a single piece of advice – Float to Live – which could help save their life if they are struggling in the water.

Ross Macleod, water safety manager at the RNLI, said: ”Heading to the coast in hot weather is a great way to have fun, relax and cool off – but the water can be dangerous. Air temperatures may feel warm, but UK sea temperatures are cold enough year-round to trigger cold-water shock, while big waves and strong rip currents can over-power even the most confident water users.

“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.

“We know this advice saves lives. To date, 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.”

In short, the RNLI Float to Live guidance is: 