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Avon Fire & Rescue Service (AF&RS), in partnership with the RNLI, is hosting a fun, family-friendly water-safety event in Weston-super-Mare from 26th to the 29th of May on the beach in front of the Grand Pier. Perfect if you are looking for a free, child friendly activity.
If you are visiting Weston-Super-Mare this half term then you can take part in throw-line demonstrations, hands-on activities, and have the chance to meet firefighters and lifeboat crews. The event is designed to be interactive and engaging, helping families learn vital water-safety skills in a fun way.
Alongside the activities, crews will share simple tips on staying safe around the coast at Weston-super-Mare, where fast tides and soft mud can quickly become dangerous. Something that families might be unaware of if they are visiting from elsewhere.
Cllr Mark Canniford, Cabinet Member for Sustainable Places at North Somerset Council, said: “Water safety is absolutely crucial in Weston-super-Mare and across North Somerset’s coastline. We’re proud to support initiatives like this event, which help residents and visitors understand these unique coastal risks. By raising awareness of simple steps – such as checking tide times, staying on firm sand, and knowing what to do in an emergency – we can help ensure everyone enjoys our coastline safely.”
Water safety at Weston‑super‑Mare
Weston‑super‑Mare sits on the Bristol Channel, which has one of the highest tidal ranges in the world. At low tide, the sea can retreat up to a mile, exposing vast areas of sand and mud. When the tide turns, it returns rapidly, often much faster than visitors expect cutting people off within minutes.
At Weston‑super‑Mare, the tides are stronger, faster, and more unpredictable than most UK beaches. Checking tide times is essential for anyone visiting the area.
Weston’s beach contains extensive mud flats that can behave like quicksand. People can become trapped up to their knees, waist, or chest, and the suction makes self rescue extremely difficult. Every year, emergency services carry out multiple rescues when visitors unknowingly walk onto the mud.
Safety advice
The beach is equipped with clear warning signs, including “Danger: Sinking Mud” and “Do Not Go Beyond This Point”. These signs are based on local knowledge of the most hazardous areas and must be followed.
Jacq Hardwick, Water Safety Lead at AF&RS, said: “Visitors should never attempt to rescue others on their own. The mud and tides are unpredictable, and untrained attempts can put more lives at risk. Staying on firm sand, checking tide times, and calling 999 immediately are the best ways to stay safe.”
Visitors are urged to:
By following these simple steps, visitors can enjoy Weston‑super‑Mare safely and help reduce the number of avoidable rescues each year.