IF you're thinking about heading to one of west Dorset's beaches, you're urged to check it's lifeguarded as peak season comes to an end.

After a busy summer preventing and responding to incidents along the coastline, the RNLI lifeguard peak season will be ending soon, with patrols on some beaches coming to a close in early September.

Patrols will finish at West Bay and Lyme Regis on Sunday, September 1.

Steve Instance, RNLI community safety partner, said: "We normally see a change in weather conditions during September, with Atlantic swells making conditions more challenging.

"We’re still expecting people to be enjoying the coast, especially if we have more good weather, so it’s important people make sure the beach they’re visiting is lifeguarded.

"If you are planning on swimming at a lifeguarded beach, you should stay between the red and yellow flags as this is the safest area and is most closely monitored by lifeguards."

It's been a busy season for west Dorset's lifeguards.

Thirteen people were rescued in one day, most of whom were in danger due to using inflatables, despite clear warnings on how to stay safe at the beach.

On the same day, lifeguards also rescued two girls who were trying to swim back after falling from a kayak.

To find your nearest RNLI lifeguarded beach and check its season dates, visit rnli.org/