RESIDENTS and tourists have been urged to take extra safety precautions when near or in the sea due to the unpredictable weather.

Burnham-on-Sea’s RNLI team is warning people to stay safe and to check weather forecasts before heading to the beach.

The warning comes after the lifesaving volunteers battled treacherous conditions on a number of call-outs in recent months, including high winds during Storm Doris, which makes rescues dangerous for both victims and for the crew members.

A spokesman for Burnham-on-Sea RNLI said: “Water users need to be aware of forthcoming weather conditions before venturing out to sea.

“Check weather forecasts, equip yourself with the appropriate safety gear and ensure your craft is suitable for the prevailing conditions.

“A calm sunny day can rapidly change as bad weather closes in, causing a potentially life-threatening situation.”

Crew at the station have been extra vigilant in the last few weeks after Storm Doris brutally hit the UK.

The storm saw winds of up to 90mph hit some towns across the UK with coastline areas including Burnham being battered by the harsh weather conditions.

Churchfield School in Highbridge fell victim to the storm and closed its doors on February 24 after high speed winds caused damage to some of the school’s internal roof tiles.

Since the storm, Burnham lifeboat crews have been doing a range of training exercises including launching from high tide, lanyarding exercises and launching the lifeboats in bracing winds to ensure they are prepared to rescue any person who is struggling in poor weather conditions.

The spokesman added: “The lifeboat volunteers are ready to launch 24/7.

“They are highly trained with the best available equipment and due regard to prevailing conditions is always given before each launch by designated launch authorities which are part of every lifeboat station management command structure.

“Additionally, even when stood on the coast in heavy weather watching breaking waves, it is possible for pedestrians to be swept out to sea so advice in this case is to stand well back or at least be aware of the hazards on the coastline.

“We would advise that if the seas are rough that people do not enter the water or try wave dodging as they could be swept away by the current.

“It may seem fun but a person’s safety is not worth it.”

For more information visit http://www.burnham-on-searnli.org.uk