The RNLI and Maritime and Coastguard Agency have issued an important reminder ahead of the weekend that inflatables should only be used in pools, not at the coast!

While out on a shout recently, one set of RNLI lifeboat volunteers spotted two people on an inflatable crocodile, quite far out to sea!

After receiving safety advice from the crew about the dangers of using inflatables without lifejackets, especially in changing tides and winds, they agreed to be brought onto the boat.

Andy Brown, West Kirby RNLI Launch Authority, said: “Inflatables, like crocodiles or lilos, can be risky at the coast, rocks can puncture the inflatable, strong ebbing tides can quickly pull you out to sea, miles from shore.”

If you see someone in need of help or in trouble, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.