Many of us like to relax and spend the day at the beach.  Whether it is enjoying the sunshine, having a dip in the sea or building sandcastles with the kids.

Cefn Sidan Beach is the only lifeguard patrolled beach in Carmarthenshire with lifeguards in attendance from Whitsun to early September.

Pendine sands are gently shelving but inflatables are a problem, particularly with offshore winds.  The County Council, in conjunction with the other beach owners (MOD and Pendine Community Council) have recently prohibited vehicles and wind powered craft from the beach following concern over safety issues.  We appreciate that there are very positive aspects to many of the activities and we will, in the medium term, be discussing in detail with clubs/organisations with a view to the re-introduction of appropriate activties / uses in a safe, structured and controlled manner. 

Many of the coastal towns and villages have lovely beaches, but the difference between low and hightide can be as much as 8 metres.  Before visiting check the local Tide Tables and read the Beach Safety Guide which gives helpful advice on how to keep safe.

Carmarthenshire is well-blessed with two major estuaries, the Three Rivers Estuary and the Burry Inlet/Loughor Estuary. They are beautiful places, internationally important for their biodiversity and of a great deal of historical interest. They can be excellent for fishing, boating, walking and observing wildlife. However they can also be dangerous places.

The difference in sea levels can be as much as eight metres between high and low tides and all estuary users should be familiar with current local tide tables (see above).

Ask for local advice when exploring and fishing in unfamiliar estuaries. There is no general right of access away from foreshores. Foreshores can be very muddy and inaccessible. Walkers are encouraged to experience estuaries from the footpaths or cycleways which follow the Taf Estuary between Laugharne and St. Clears, the Gwendraeth Estuary at Kidwelly Quay, and the Burry Inlet between Burry Port and Bynea, Llanelli.

Look out for fast-flowing river currents, shifting sandbanks, occasional quicksand, and soft mud.

Wildfowling occasionally takes place on estuaries during the autumn and winter months, although shooting is not permitted on Sundays. Visitors should be particularly cautious when near saltmarshes or other areas frequented by ducks and geese.

NEVER, EVER try to swim or walk across an estuary!

In an Emergency find the nearest lifeguard.  If there isn't one on duty dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.  Tell them:-

• Who you are
• Where you are
• What the Emergency is
• Stay by the phone if they ask you to

Courtesy of Carmarthen County Council