During a heatwave the number of beach-goers descending on the UK’s seasides inevitably skyrockets, as everyone rushes to make the most of those precious few days of British summer.

While we may be far more vigilant on holiday resorts abroad (it’s a different sun over there, don’t you know?), many of us Brits are woefully unaware of the dangers posed by our own coastline, and last weekend saw Blackpool lifeboat volunteers called out three times in a 24 hour period. 

For those of us with children in tow, the consequences of slacking on seaside safety could be devastating, but the most common incidents attended by HM Coastguard Lytham during the heatwave were reports of children missing on the beach. 

We spoke to Blackpool's coastal authorities about the dangers of the sea, and found out how the aptly named “Operation Nemo” is helping to reunite parents with their missing children as quickly as possible. 

While in Blackpool, we also met with Prince’s Trust team 83, who have been working closely with Lancashire Fire and Rescue service. 

As part of their programme the team had to complete a community challenge, and they chose to present these important safety messages to the community to coincide with Lancashire Fire and Rescue and HM Coastguards’ water safety campaigns.

A spokesperson for Blackpool RNLI said: "The RNLI, with the support of HM Coastguard, is urging everyone to remember to Float to Live if they get into trouble in the water.

"To do this: lean back, using your arms and legs to stay afloat.

"Control your breathing, then call for help or swim to safety. In a coastal emergency, call 999 or 112 for the Coastguard."