Pen-y-bont Surf Life Saving Club’s primary goal is to save lives. A major part of this objective is fulfilled by operating voluntary beach patrols. We endeavor to patrol every weekend between May and September. It is a vital service and many people have been helped by the club’s volunteers.
General Beach Safety Advice
- Always swim or surf at a beach patrolled by lifesavers or lifeguards.
- Swim between the red & yellow flags. They mark the safest areas to swim.
- Avoid swimming alone or unsupervised.
- Read the signs. If a beach is closed, don’t swim there.
- If you are unsure of the surf conditions ask a lifeguard or lifesaver.
- Don’t swim directly after a meal.
- Don’t swim under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Don’t run or dive in the water, always check the conditions.
- If you get in trouble in the water, don’t panic, raise one arm up and float until help arrives.
- Float with a rip current or undertow, don’t swim against it
- In an EMERGENCY DIAL 999 and ask for the COASTGUARD
If in doubt, ask for advice at the lifeguard station
Safety at Ogmore by Sea
The waters around Ogmore by Sea can be particularly dangerous. Hazards include strong currents, the river, winds and rocks.
Always follow the general beach safety advice but also when bathing at Ogmore by Sea keep in mind the following:
- Do not swim in the river or on the river side of the red flag.The currents in and around the river can be very strong and dangerous.
- If you do cross the river to the other beach, check tide times – you will not be able to walk back across when the tide starts coming in.
- There are often strong currents in the sea around the main beach areas – be mindful of these stationary object on land.
- Do not use inflatables when the wind is blowing offshore.
- Be wary of the rocks and small coves, especially when the tide is incoming.
- Always supervise children in or near the water.
- If in doubt, ask for advice at the lifeguard station.
Being aware of what flags means is key to beach safety
Know Your Flags!
F-ind the red and yellow flags and swim between them
L-ook at the safety signs
A-sk a lifeguard for advice
G-et a friend to swim with you
S-tick your hand in the air and shout for help if in difficulty
SLIP-SLAP-SLOP
SLIP on a tee shirt
SLAP on a hat
SLOP on some sun cream
