Ethan (right) at work on a Newquay beach (Photo credits: Phil Craig)
It doesn’t matter if you’re on holiday or a local walking your dog on the beach, the RNLI lifeguards are always on watch putting your safety first.
Ethan surfing at work whilst on duty. (Photo credits: Onlyfins Newquay)
Whilst only on duty May through to late September, they are seen as a key part in keeping everyone safe.
“Although I may not need their assistance, it’s calming to know that whoever is on the beach is going to be safe if anything were to happen,” says one Cornish local.
The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) do not just serve in Cornwall, they are a nationwide organisation who make a difference everyday which is dedicated to saving life at sea, operating a 24 hour search and rescue service. It primarily relies on volunteers and is completely separate from the government and coastguard service, however the lifeguard service is one of the roles that are paid.
The Mouth got the chance to speak to RNLI lifeguard Ethan Smith-Scotland, who actively works on the beaches surrounding Newquay, explaining that “People do take the sea for granted which is why the lifeguards are seen as a comfort blanket to the community.”
Having worked in this job for four years and also living in Cornwall his whole life, his passion for the sea is woven into him.
“This is all I know, the sea has been such a big thing in my life – so when you get members of the public who are from the city asking you to ‘turn on the waves? And ‘Where is the deep end?’ That’s when you realise you are there for a reason.”
“I am proud that I’ve got the knowledge to help people, and that I am sort of seen as a beacon of hope and safety to the public.”
So, next time you’re on the beach and see a lifeguard on duty, remind yourself that they do a lot more than what you might think and they are there to serve not only the community but also you.