• Whatever you do and wherever you do it, please ensure that the conditions are safe and that you have the right equipment. If new to the activity or inexperienced, use an accredited operator (where appropriate, all operators featured on this website have achieved the relevant activity accreditation).
• Watch your footing: many of our beaches and stretches of our coastline are home to marine life, such as weever fish, which can give stings when stood on, as well as rocky patches that can result in cuts. We suggest the use of water shoes, especially with younger people, and try to keep an eye on where you are stepping.
• If participating in an activity in the sea or near the shoreline, then keep an eye on the state of the tide, as it can turn very quickly here causing a tidal surge or rip tide; especially at Three Cliffs Bay, Burry Holms and the Worm’s Head causeway. The Worm’s Head, Rhossili Coastwatch Centre can help you plan your walk safely.
• If surfing at Llangennith watch out for shipwrecks below the waterline.
• Read this safety PDF on stand up paddle boarding SUP SAFETY FLYER.
• It is recommended that you keep children in line of sight at all times and swim at a lifeguarded beach – see below for more information on RNLI Lifeguarded beaches. If you do see someone in difficulty, do not attempt to enter the water yourself, telephone 999 and ask for the coastguard.
During cold winter weather extra care needs to be taken when outside enjoying the countryside.
Be careful when pavements, road, paths and tracks are icy – sometimes ice can be difficult to spot, tread carefully and wear appropriate footwear.
Please dress up warmly, take a snack with you and make sure your mobile phone is charged (please note that sometimes the signal can be patchy on Gower). It’s also advisable to let someone know where you will be – or take a friend with you!
If you are taking part in any watersports this winter, please remember that even though the water temperature can be warmer than the air, your body can lose heat very quickly. Make sure you have a winter weight wetsuit and you let a friend know where you will be.
It’s important never to step out onto frozen water – even if it looks solid.
Many aren’t aware of the dangers of frozen ponds, lakes and reservoirs; they may look solid from the surface but will not hold your weight and could crack when stood on. The Royal Life Saving Society UK has devised these safety tips about the dangers of frozen waters.
Lifeguards on duty:
For more information on RNLI lifeguards and patrols visit the RNLI website
It’s great to see so many people out enjoying the fresh air again – and it’s as fresh as it gets on our beautiful bays and beaches. But as more people enjoy our cracking coastline we want to make extra sure that nothing spoils the fun.
Before you next head to the beach or take a plunge into the sea check out this handy and potentially lifesaving guide put together by the RNLI and HM Coastguard. It will help you understand beach flags and signs, rip currents, tides and points out dangers such as using inflatables in the sea.
Make sure you and your family and friends stay safe this summer!
• The Gower Coast Path is close to the edge of the cliff in many places. For your own safety – Keep to the Path!
• Some sections of the Coast Path are subject to high tides. Be careful, as the tide can turn very quickly here. In extreme instances you may have to wait until the tide recedes before continuing or you may be able to use an alternative route. Do not attempt to swim as you may get into difficulty.
• Some routes follow the road for short distances, often there is no pavement. Please take care when using these sections as drivers may not be aware of your presence.
• Always wear suitable footwear and clothing for the conditions you would expect to find at the time of year.
• If you find yourself in difficulty dial 999 (112 on a mobile) and ask for the Coastguard.
• Always follow the countryside code: keep dogs on a lead near livestock. Leave gates as you find them – and please take your litter home.
The sun’s out, so there is nothing nicer than a day out at the beach. If you’re going to be packing a BBQ to enjoy when the sun starts going down here are a few things to remember:
If no bin is available please take the barbecue home with you to dispose of – make sure it is FULLY EXTINGUISHED and COLD before handling and transporting in a fireproof container eg a galvanised bucket
THANK YOU! – we want to keep our beaches beautiful and safe for people AND for marine life too!
