Beach & Water Safety
Essential safety information to help you enjoy our beautiful coastline safely. Learn the RNLI Float to Live technique and important safety tips.
🌊 Stay Safe on Our Coastline
Gorran Haven's beaches are beautiful but the sea can be unpredictable. Following these safety guidelines will help ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable visit.
Check Conditions
Always check weather, tides, and sea conditions before entering the water
Supervise Children
Keep children within arm's reach and in sight at all times near water
Wear Life Jackets
Children should wear properly fitted life jackets when near or in water
Emergency Ready
Know emergency numbers and have a phone ready to call for help
No Lifeguard Service
Gorran Haven beaches do not have lifeguards. You are responsible for your own safety and that of your family. Never swim alone and always inform someone of your plans when entering the water.
🌊 RNLI Float to Live
If you fall into cold water, your first instinct may be to swim hard or panic. Instead, follow the RNLI Float to Live technique to save your life.
Step 1
Tilt Your Head Back
Submerge your ears in the water. This helps you get into the optimal floating position.
Step 2
Relax & Control Breathing
Try to relax and control your breathing. Panic uses energy and makes floating harder.
Step 3
Move Hands & Legs
Gently move your hands and legs to help you stay afloat. Small movements are more effective than big ones.
Step 4
Legs May Sink - That's OK
Everyone floats differently. Don't worry if your legs sink - focus on keeping your airway clear.
Step 5
Practice Floating
Practice this technique at a supervised location like a swimming pool before you need it.
💡 Why Float to Live Works
Cold water shock can cause you to gasp and inhale water. Fighting the water uses energy and can lead to drowning. Floating conserves energy and gives you time to get control of your breathing before swimming to safety or signaling for help.
Learn more: Visit RNLI.org/safety for comprehensive water safety information and videos demonstrating the Float to Live technique.
👨👩👧👦 Family Safety Guidelines
Special considerations for keeping families safe at the beach
Life Jackets for Kids
Children should wear properly fitted life jackets when playing on the beach near water. If they accidentally get out of their depth, they will float and be able to wait for rescue.
- • Ensure proper fit - snug but comfortable
- • Check buckles and straps regularly
- • Look for CE marking and safety standards
- • Practice in shallow water first
Constant Supervision
Active supervision means staying within arm's reach of children near water. Drowning can happen quickly and silently.
- • Stay within arm's reach in water
- • Designate a "water watcher" if multiple adults
- • No phones or distractions while supervising
- • Even in shallow water - stay alert
Swimming Skills
Ensure all family members have appropriate swimming skills for the conditions. Sea swimming is different from pools.
- • Pool skills don't equal sea skills
- • Consider formal sea swimming lessons
- • Start in shallow, calm water
- • Build confidence gradually
Sun Protection
Coastal areas have intense UV exposure. Protect your family from sunburn and heat-related illness.
- • Use SPF 30+ sunscreen, reapply regularly
- • Wear hats and UV protective clothing
- • Seek shade during peak hours (11am-3pm)
- • Stay hydrated with water
Beach Hazards
Be aware of natural hazards that can cause injury or danger on the beach and in the water.
- • Slippery rocks and seaweed
- • Hidden rocks in water
- • Strong currents and rip tides
- • Marine life (jellyfish, weever fish)
Emergency Ready
Be prepared for emergencies with proper planning and equipment. Know what to do and who to call.
- • Carry a charged mobile phone
- • Know your exact location
- • Basic first aid knowledge
- • Emergency contact numbers saved
🌊 Understanding Tides & Weather
Local conditions that affect safety at Gorran Haven
Tide Safety
Tides at Gorran Haven can change rapidly. Understanding tidal movements is crucial for safe beach activities.
High Tide
Less beach area, deeper water, stronger currents
Low Tide
More beach exposed, rock pools visible, easier access
Turning Tide
Water level changing - can cut off access routes
Always check tide times before visiting. Tide tables are available online or at local shops.
Weather Awareness
Coastal weather can change quickly. Monitor conditions and be prepared to leave the water or beach if conditions deteriorate.
Good Conditions
Light winds, clear visibility, calm seas
Caution Needed
Moderate winds, choppy water, changing conditions
Dangerous
Strong winds, large waves, storms, poor visibility
Never enter the water in stormy or dangerous conditions. When in doubt, stay out.
🚨 Emergency Information
Important numbers and what to do in an emergency
Emergency Services
Ask for Coastguard for sea emergencies
Location Services
Download the What3Words app to give emergency services your exact location using three words.
Gorran Haven Beach:
First Aid
Nearest Hospital:
Royal Cornwall Hospital, Truro
Approximately 30 minutes drive
Local GP:
Mevagissey Surgery
🆘 If Someone is in Trouble in the Water
1. Call 999
Ask for Coastguard immediately
2. Shout
Get their attention and others to help
3. Throw
Throw something that floats to them
4. Don't Enter
Don't enter the water unless trained
📚 Learn More About Water Safety
The RNLI provides comprehensive water safety information, training, and resources for individuals and families.
Safety information is for guidance only. Always use your judgment and seek professional training. 🌊