RNLI INSIDE THE HUT #2
A SERIES OF STORIES FROM THE PEOPLE KEEPING UK BEACHES SAFE.
‘Inside the Hut’ is a blog series giving an inside look on what it takes to be an RNLI lifeguard. Telling the stories of some of the 1,700 RNLI lifeguards who are responsible for keeping the people who visit the 240 beaches across the UK safe each season.
In 2023, RNLI lifeguards responded to 14,213 incidents and aided 19,979 people who got into trouble across beaches nationwide. But what is it really like to be on patrol? We hear from some of the incredible lifeguards about what being a part of the RNLI lifeguard service means to them.
Adam King, Senior Lifeguard
“Working as a Lifeguard on the north coast of Northern Ireland for nearly a decade has taught me how important the RNLI is for the community, as I have seen first-hand how we are able to help those at sea.
The training we receive is the highest of standards and this enables us to carry out our roles effectively. Skills such as teamwork communication and first aid are all transferable outside of the service.
This year the RNLI celebrates its 200th Anniversary and XTRATUF have kindly offered their support to the Lifeguard service providing each Lifeguard with their own Sliders to wear on the beaches.” – Adam King, Senior Lifeguard.
Gregory McCracken, Grade 3 Lifeguard
"Lifeguarding provides a rewarding sense of responsibility, being part of a team that seeks to keep those on the beach safe is fulfilling in many ways!" – Gregory McCracken, Grade 3 Lifeguard.
Ola Krystowska, Senior Lifeguard
"As a lifeguard, I get to work alongside my brother and friends, ensure beach user safety and use the beach as my workspace! What more could you want?” – Ola Krystowska, Senior Lifeguard
Ben Porter, Senior Lifeguard
“I’ve been a beach lifeguard with the RNLI since 2015. I keep returning to the role because I enjoy the social aspect of working outdoors on a beach. I also strive to pet every dog that comes within a 10-metre radius of me when I’m on patrol!
When on duty, we as lifeguards constantly engage with the pubic, raising awareness of local beach hazards on the day as well as general water safety. There is a high standard of training afforded to all the lifeguards. This provides me with the skills and confidence to respond to various incidents together with my colleagues.
In all my years of lifeguarding I can’t account for a single day where my team and I didn’t make a positive impact when it comes to people’s awareness of beach and water safety, as well as our contribution to the RNLI’s vision of ending preventable loss of life at sea. There’s a great sense of pride that comes with wearing the red and yellows of the RNLI and I hope to wear the uniform for many years to come.” – Ben Porter, Senior Lifeguard.
Find out more about the XTRATUF x RNLI collaboration