Our first beach training session of the year got off to a great start. The weather was warm but overcast with occasional showers. Both Rookie and Survive & Save
members turned up eager to get in the sea.
Our aim was to teach the young people how the skills learnt at the pool can be transferred to an open water environment. We started by discussing what dangers can be found at the beach and how they can be resolved safely. From here the group completed a beach walk with trainers explaining why the information boards are vital, local tidal systems, why sandbanks have Minions and finished off with a tour of the RNLI lifeguard hut.
The group then split into two – the first one learning about buoyancy aids, their uses and differences whilst the second set out to learn how to use kayaks for open water safety cover. After lunch the
groups switched to ensure everyone got time on the water.
After, we challenged the members to run/swim the groyne race whereby you run from one groyne to another along the waters edge, swim out to an allocated trainer in kayak and back then run one
more length along the beach.
Last but not least everyone helped carry the kayaks back to the store, wash them and put away ready for the next session.
AS ALWAYS ‘SPECIAL THANKS’ TO THE TRAINERS AND VOLUNTEERS WITH OUT WHOM THIS WOULD NOT BE POSSIBLE: ANDY SMART, TOM MCMAHON, ETHAN PILLEY, CLARE HAWKINS AND AMANDA
WISE-HALL.
