PEOPLE planning trips to Wirral beaches are being urged to visit ones that are lifeguarded and swimming between the area's red and yellow flags.

The safety advice is being issued as part of World Drowning Prevention Day and as school children across the country enjoy the start of the summer holidays, with the coast predicted to be incredibly busy.

The following Wirral beaches are lifeguarded: Leasowe Bay, Moreton, New Brighton, The Plateux (adjacent to Fort Perch Rock) and West Kirby.

Figures from the RNLI show 83% of the UK adult population (aged 16-64) expect to visit the coast this summer, and 40% expect to go three times or more.

The data also reveals that lifeguards in the North West attended 727 incidents, went to the aid of 1,775 people and saved one life last year.

Last year, 236 people accidentally died in water related fatalities nationally, ten more than in 2022 but in line with the five-year average. Of the 236 accidental fatalities; 20 occurred in July and 21 in August, reinforcing how important it is to stay safe at the coast over the summer. 

The RNLI's water safety Lead for the North West, Chris Cousins said: "On World Drowning Prevention Day we want to remind everyone that visiting a lifeguarded beach and swimming between the red and yellow flags can make a lifesaving difference.

"We know the coast is going to be incredibly busy over the summer holidays and we want everyone to enjoy their time but to also remember our vital safety advice.

"If you get into trouble in the water float to Live; tilt your head back with ears submerged and try to relax and control your breathing.

"Use your hands to help you stay afloat and then call for help or swim to safety if you can.

"It's OK if your legs sink, we all float differently. In a coastal emergency, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard."

For more details, go to: RNLI.org/float2024