Play safe in Lowestoft and Southwold

SAFETY on the award-winning beaches of Lowestoft and Southwold is paramount to visitors and townsfolk.

In the penultimate week of a summer-long campaign, the Stay Safe message has been encouraging guests and locals to follow vital advice as people have fun in the sun.

And this week's safety message is particularly pertinent to parents as youngsters enjoy the sun-drenched sand and shores.

The Journal has been teaming up with Waveney District Council for the past 12 weeks to promote the campaign and help people Stay Safe This Summer.

And with it comes an important message - when you go to the beach it's great to have fun with your friends and family on the sand and in the sea, but you should adhere to some vital information and advice to keep yourself safe.

The special safety message this week comes from the council's beach lifeguard, Charlie Baker, who is calling on people to be mindful when playing on the beach.

'Children love to play in the sand and sometimes this can involve digging the biggest hole they can or burying their friends or family members!' he said.

'It might seem like fun, but it has caused some accidents. Wet sand can be very cold and extremely heavy, making it difficult to move if you become stuck in a deep hole.

'Don't stop your children having fun, but please be mindful of the risks,' Charlie added. 'Sand holes can fill in quickly when water encroaches or when the sides collapse.

'Don't let children dig holes that are too deep or have steep sides and ensure that they are not made too close to the sea. Also, don't let them bury one another above waist height!' he concluded.

The following beach safety advice has been reiterated this week:

Ask a lifeguard for advice - they are there to help.

Do not swim or play near groynes and piers.

If you get into trouble in the water, raise your hand in the air and shout for help.

Keep sight of young children at all times.