As the school holidays approach, the RNLI is calling on people visiting the Suffolk coast this Easter to stay safe in and around the water.

Around half of those who die at the coast find themselves in the water unexpectedly, often as a result of slips, trips or falls.

The volunteer lifeboat crew are advising beach-goers to check the weather and tide conditions before they swim or sail, and make sure all equipment is in working order.

People are also encouraged to carry a means of calling for help should something go wrong.

Nick Ayers, RNLI Community Safety Partner for the North East and East, said: “RNLI lifesavers across Norfolk and Suffolk are dedicated to providing a professional rescue service to those who need it and last year, together assisted 200 people. In 2017, RNLI volunteer lifeboat crew launched 177 times in Norfolk and Suffolk.

“Despite their commitment, tragically in the UK and Ireland at least one person dies from drowning each day. We believe that one drowning is one too many and we would encourage people to think ahead and to take the necessary precautions to keep them and their family safe at the coast.

“If you’re planning to get in the water over Easter, please be aware that the RNLI lifeguard season begins later in the spring therefore the beaches will not be manned. If you are feeling brave enough for a swim, we recommend wearing a wetsuit at this time of year to stay warmer, and only enter the water if it is safe to do so.”

If you see someone in trouble at the coast, alert the lifeguards or call 999 (or 112) and ask for the coastguard.