THE RNLI welcomed more than 96 local schoolchildren to Penzance’s Jubilee Pool on Monday (June 8) for a large‑scale water safety day in partnership with Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service and Surf Life Saving Great Britain (SLSGB).

The event brought together children from three schools for a fun, hands‑on programme designed to build confidence in and around the water. Throughout the day, pupils learned how to use a lifeguard rescue board, practised throwing a rescue line, explored water safety flags and inflatables guidance, and tried the RNLI’s lifesaving ‘Float to Live’ technique — a skill that could one day save their life.

“Educating children and young people about water safety is fundamental to saving lives at sea and a core part of our prevention work,” said RNLI water safety officer Joel Ninnes. “Giving children the opportunity to get involved and be part of the action really helps them to learn and understand.

“I was especially impressed with the children not so confident in the water giving it a go - it was fantastic to see them progress really quickly, and wonderful to see so many star fish positions as they practiced their FLOAT technique, which they now know to use to keep themselves afloat if they get into difficulty in the water.”

Penzance Fire Station watch manager John Navin was there to show how to throw a rescue line. “Nationally, drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional injury-related death among children ages 14 and under, with under fives at the highest risk.

“The majority of all drownings and near-drownings occur between May and August. To be able to get a water safety message and practical sessions to young children before the summer holidays could save the lives of them or their siblings.”

Kerry Blewitt-Hill, activities and outreach manager at Jubilee Pool said: “This year marks the Jubilee Pool’s 91st year and it’s been fantastic to deliver important water safety skills to local schoolchildren. It was clear to see the enjoyment on everyone’s faces; if they enjoy it, they will remember the lessons learned.”

Surf Life Saving Great Britain (SLSGB) drew on their Splash School education programme for schools. George Haynes, SLSGB head of membership and programmes, said: “Our partnership with the RNLI goes back over 70 years, with a proud history of training thousands of RNLI lifeguards every year.

“For those children and adults inspired by the day and interested in developing their lifesaving skills, water confidence and knowledge of water safety, SLSGB encourages people to visit their nearest surf lifesaving club, which can be found at www.slsgb.org.uk.”

With temperatures beginning to rise again, the RNLI is urging anyone heading to the coast to visit a lifeguarded beach and always swim between the red and yellow flags; check tide times and local conditions before entering the water and if in doubt, speak to the RNLI lifeguards; and Float to Live if you get into difficulty - tilt your head back, relax and spread your arms and legs.