A guide to beach safety

As restrictions start being relaxed, you might be tempted to head to one of Devon’s beaches, so we’ve come up with a guide to help you maintain social distancing and enjoy the coast safely.

Before you set out.

• Follow the Government advice at all times.
• Before you leave, make sure to check whether the beach and its carpark are open.
• If you plan to go swimming or surfing, check the water quality before travelling.
• Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately, ie bring sun cream, sun glasses and refillable water bottles or warm clothes and sensible shoes.
• If you’re travelling alone, tell someone where you are going and a rough idea of when you’ll be back.
• Stay local, visit your nearest beach rather than travelling long distance.

When you’re at the beach.

• Obey all signs and follow the advice of lifeguards or any tide times that have been published.
• Make sure to keep 2m apart from other beach users, even when you’re in the water.
• If it isn’t possible to maintain 2m, leave and come back another time.
• Be sensible, don’t go too deep into the water and don’t push your limits to help protect the emergency services.

When you’re ready to leave.

• Take everything you brought with you home or dispose of it in the bins provided.
• If you see any rubbish, please pick it up and help keep Devon’s beaches beautiful!
• When you arrive home, wash your hands and change your clothes, make sure to wash anything you took the the beach as soon as possible.

Want to find your nearest beach? Take a look at the beaches of Devon here.

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