The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) is encouraging spectators at this weekend’s University Boat Races between Cambridge and Oxford to take extra care on the banks of the River Thames.
With 200,000 people expected to gather along the four-mile Championship course from Putney to Mortlake, lifeboat crews and beach lifeguards will be on the water to help keep the public safe. Two E class lifeboats from Chiswick RNLI Lifeboat Station will join five Arancias, the inshore rescue boat used by the charity’s lifeguards, on the river during the highly anticipated races.
RNLI lifeguards will also be interacting with spectators on the banks of the river, sharing vital safety information and working to prevent members of the public from accidentally entering the water.
Wayne Bellamy, Station Manager at Chiswick RNLI, said: ‘We hope everyone coming to the races has a great time. Our advice is to be aware of your surroundings. Slips, trips and falls can easily happen, and we urge spectators to keep children close by when near the water’s edge.
‘If you do fall in, remember to Float to Live. Tilt your head back with ears submerged, relax and try to breathe normally, move your hands to help you stay afloat and spread your arms to improve stability. If you do see anyone in trouble, dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard and if you can, try and give a location as this will help rescue services get to those in difficulty quicker.’
Tom Ward, RNLI Lead Lifeguard Supervisor, said: ‘Our lifeguards have been working hard in preparation for this year’s Boat Races and we’re looking forward to engaging with spectators on the banks of the Thames. We want everyone to have an enjoyable day, but it’s important to do so safely. We urge everyone to stay out the water.
‘While you’d normally expect to see our lifeguards on beaches throughout the summer, a lot of their work is preventative and they will be working alongside our lifeboat crews on the Thames to keep people safe at this world famous sporting occasion.’
As a charity, the RNLI’s lifesaving work is only possible due to the generosity of the public. To support the RNLI’s Mayday campaign, visit RNLI.org/supportMayday
