RNLI lifeguard
"We know what to do as we've had high-level first aid training for those who are first on the scene of an incident."
Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboats have saved more than 137,000 lives.
In 2005 RNLI lifeboats rescued 8,104 people - an average of 22 people per day. RNLI Lifeguards assisted 9,930 people.
The RNLI also aims to save lives by changing attitudes and behaviour among people who use the sea regularly.
It also educates children and young people on how they can help and stay safe on or by the sea.
Volunteer crew members come from all walks of life and readily exchange leisure, comfort and sleep for cold, wet and fatigue.
Their lifesaving work is essential, often difficult and sometimes dangerous.
These days, less than 10% of crew members come from maritime backgrounds. So it is essential that the RNLI provides first class training to make sure its crews have the skills they need to save lives.
