There’s also a lot of fun games and exercises both in and out of the sea, plus instruction in how to use a bodyboard safely and a chance to see some of the RNLI equipment, such as an inshore rescue boat close-up.
The Hit The Surf sessions are being held at Golden Sands Holiday Park near Mablethorpe, Lincolnshire (August 2-5); Kiln Park Holiday Park, Tenby, South Wales (Aug 9-13); and Devon Cliffs Holiday Park, near Exmouth, Devon (Aug 16-20).
The RNLI initiative complements the charity’s annual beach safety campaign, which encourages families heading to the seaside to choose beaches with lifeguards.
The message will also reach thousands of families as RNLI On the Beach leaflets and Spot the Dangers activity sheets are being included in Haven’s Learn2Swim packs.
Haven, with 35 Holiday Parks, is one of the UK’s leading providers of swimming lessons through its highly acclaimed swimming programme.
This year swimming lessons are free on all Haven Holiday Parks along with many other activities.
Dave Gorman, the RNLI’s Divisional Beach Safety Manager, says the Hit the Surf programme gives children a unique and exciting opportunity to learn important safety lessons whilst having great fun.
He added Hit the Surf is especially important for children visiting the coast from inland areas, who are typically less familiar with the beach environment.
He added: “By linking in with Haven, we are reaching a wider audience. The charity will be running Hit the Surf sessions at both Devon Cliffs in Exmouth and Kiln Park in Tenby, Wales, which both have direct access to an RNLI lifeguarded beach.”
Naomi Woodstock, Haven’s PR, Charity and Sponsorship Manager, says: “The RNLI’s volunteer lifeboat crew and lifeguards do a fantastic job in keeping families around the coast safe all year round, particularly during the summer holidays. Haven Holidays is delighted to be able to work with the RNLI to help promote the charity's vital safety messages to all of our customers, to ensure they all enjoy a safe and happy holiday.”