LLANDUDNO’S D Class Lifeboat Dr Barbara Saunderson launched at 4.39pm on Sunday, 24 July at the request of HM Coastguard.

They were asked to locate and assess the welfare of three swimmers in open water close to the old lighthouse on the Great Orme.

The three swimmers who were in wet suits informed the lifeboat crew that they did not need assistance and were coasteering their way back to the nearest beach.

The crew decided in consultation with the coastguard to remain on scene until the group had made their way to a safe location where safety advice was offered by the local coastguard team.

A spokesperson from Llandudno Lifeboat Station explained: “The RNLI has comprehensive safety advice so you can find the information you need to make the most out of your time at the coast.

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“Whether you're going to the beach, exploring the coast, or venturing out onto the water, we have the sea safety advice to help you stay safe.”

Additionally, the RNLI website advises when open water swimming always arrange to go with a buddy.

Some of their advise is as follows:

  • Have the right equipment, wear a wetsuit
  • It’ll help you stay warm and can increase your buoyancy, so you can stay in the water for longer
  • Wear a brightly coloured swimming hat and take a tow float with you when swimming or dipping
  • These will help you to be seen in the water and a tow float can act as extra buoyancy if you need it
  • Make sure you have plenty of warm clothes and a warm drink for after your swim
  • It is important to warm yourself up carefully

If considering coasteering activities the RNLI advises only taking part in coasteering as part of a group, which has:

  • Professionally trained staff (both technical and water safety based)
  • Adequate insurance cover
  • Safety equipment (helmets, wetsuits etc)
  • Emergency evacuation / accident procedures
  • Pre-defined routes and notify the local HM Coastguard so that they also know what you plan to do