Safety not a priority for most beach-goers

Startling statistics from the Royal National Lifeboat Institute reveal that only 4% of people consider safety when choosing which beach to go to.

Some 54% of people do not understand the significance of the different coloured flags, except for the red flag, which usually means danger.

The RNLI's Sea Safety Manager Kevin Rahill says parents should choose beaches where there is a lifeguard.

“It’s very important if you are going to the beach, to choose a beach with a lifeguard. If you’re not sure where the beaches with lifeguards are, check with your local authority,” he said.

“When you go the beach where a lifeguard is, identify where the red and yellow flags are and swim between the flags,” said Mr Rahill. “If a red flag is flying it means danger."