Swimmers are being urged to check conditions before they enter the water after a number of people were rescued from Sidmouth’s breakwaters this week.
Guy Russell, who runs Jurassic Paddle Sports on the beach, said the water is generally safe but an easterly wind creates a rip current between the sea defences.
On Tuesday, he and training Sidmouth Lifeboat crews spoke to a number of youngsters who had climbed onto the rocks, which are covered in barnacles and can be sharp.
“I’m here seven days a week and watch everyone like a hawk to make sure they are OK,” said Guy. “It’s very safe in the water; however, in easterlies it does get very hazardous near the rock islands.”
He said the water may look calm on the surface but in an easterly, the rip current can pull swimmers towards the rocks.
Guy added that he posts sea condition updates to his business Facebook page, which many people check before they head to the beach, and is he happy to advise people before they enter the water.
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