LIFESAVERS had to be called out after people were cut off from the tide in Kinmel Bay.

This was the first of three incidents over the weekend for Rhyl RNLI volunteers.

The first call came in at 1.46pm, on Saturday 30, after the UK coastguard received numerous 999 calls from the public about people being cut off by the tide in the coastal town. About 30 people were contacted and shepherded back to the shore.

At 10.40pm, both lifeboats were launched to a police incident at Pensarn beach. The incident was resolved by 11.45pm.

At 2pm, on Sunday May 31, the inshore lifeboat and Landrover were again used to warn people on the beaches of Rhyl and Kinmel bay about the incoming tide.

Once again, 30 people had to be spoken to.

Chris Cousens, water safety lead for the RNLI in Wales, said: “We urge the Welsh public to remember the following safety advice: Stay in familiar surroundings and follow the Welsh Government advice. Do not put yourself, your family and emergency services at risk by taking risks or assuming it won’t happen to you.

"If you do see someone at risk call 999 and ask for the coastguard.”

A high proportion of calls for the RNLI in Wales are to people who have been cut off by the tide, including during the lockdown period. Some parts of Wales have amongst the highest tidal range in Europe.

Chris added: “If you are heading out for a coastal walk, make sure it is safe before you go.

"Always check the tide times and conditions before you set off and while out, be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on the tide direction.

"Ask for local advice and look out for safety signs.

"Always carry a means of calling for help and know to call 999 and ask for the coastguard if you or someone else is at risk.”

From Monday, June 1, the public who live within five-miles of Rhyl beach will be able to visit golden sands in the area.

The public are being warned that there are no lifeguard patrols at present.

A spokesperson from RNLI Rhyl said: "The tides can come in at speed. Always be aware of the tide coming in behind you, as you can get cut off on sand banks.

"Rhyl RNLI lifeboat volunteers remain on call 24 hours a day. Always remember if you get into trouble, or see someone in trouble at the coast, dial 999 and ask for the coastguard.

"The changes to government guidance does not mean our coasts are safe, the dangers that have always been there remain.

"We ask those who are local to beaches to continue to be aware of the inherent dangers.

"Our strong advice to the Welsh public, who are not local to a beach, is to follow the Welsh Government guidance to meet outdoors and exercise locally and not to travel to the coast.

"Air temperatures may be warming up but the sea temperature remains consistently chilly all year, jumping or falling into cold water or spending longer periods than normal submerged in the water can lead to, potentially fatal, cold water shock."