HAZARDS and dangers associated with the sea have come under scrutiny this week after rescues in the water at Lowestoft.And continuing to highlight vital safety tips, and the need to remember to be Beach Safe, The Journal is calling on locals who spend time on the sand and shoreline to keep yourself safe at all times.

HAZARDS and dangers associated with the sea have come under scrutiny this week after rescues in the water at Lowestoft.

And continuing to highlight vital safety tips, and the need to remember to be Beach Safe, The Journal is calling on locals who spend time on the sand and shoreline to keep yourself safe at all times.

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 there is some important information and advice to follow.

Teaming up with Waveney District Council's Beach Safe campaign to stress the importance of safety both at sea and on the shoreline in Lowestoft and Southwold, The Journal's Stay Safe This Summer campaign continues to help keep people Beach Safe this summer.

And this week's safety message comes from Waveney District Council's beach lifeguard Jade Russell, as she helps locals to understand one of the hazards and dangers associated with the sea - that of rip currents.

Rip currents are strong currents running out to the sea that can easily take swimmers from shallow water, out beyond their depth. They are found around structures like piers and groynes and are especially powerful in larger surf. You can spot a rip current by the following signs: discoloured brown water caused by sand stirred up from the seabed, foam on the water's surface, debris floating out to sea and a rippled patch of sea when the water around is generally calm.

This is particularly prevalent regarding the recent rescue by Ms Russell of two young men that were caught out by currents around Claremont Pier on the second day of the Lowestoft Air Show last month.

And Jade said: “If you do get caught in a rip current, remember the three R's to get out of trouble - relax, raise (your arm) and rescue.

“It is important that you relax, stay calm and float. “Do not swim against the current, swim across it,” she added. “Raise your arm to signal and shout for help. “Rescue - float and wait for assistance.

“We understand that you might be scared, but try not panic and obey directions from the lifeguard,” she said. “If you think you are able to swim in, ensure you swim parallel to the beach until you are out of the effects of the rip and then make your way to shore.”

During the final few weeks of the campaign, The Journal will stress the need to be Beach Safe:

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.