Tor Bay Harbour

Don't Get Blown Away by Offshore Winds!

Tor Bay Harbour Authority is launching a new Offshore Wind Sea Safety Campaign to help raise awareness of the dangers posed by offshore wind conditions along the English Riviera coastline.

The campaign follows several incidents during the 2025 season summer months where offshore winds were identified as a significant contributing factor. While the sea may often appear calm, offshore winds can quickly carry people and water users further from shore than expected, making it difficult to return safely.

As part of the campaign and the English Riviera Beach Standards Initiative windsocks are being installed across 6 beaches and accessible coves throughout Torbay. These provide a simple visual indication of wind direction and help beach users identify potentially hazardous offshore wind conditions before entering the water.

What are Offshore Winds?

Offshore winds blow from the land out towards the sea. Although they can create calm-looking water conditions near the shoreline, they can also increase the risk of people drifting away from the beach.

Many incidents occur because conditions appear safe from the shore, when in reality the wind is steadily pushing water users further out to sea.

Before entering the water:

• Check the weather forecast and wind conditions.
• Take note of local safety signage and windsocks.
• Stay within your abilities and experience.
• Supervise children closely near the water.
• Wear appropriate safety equipment for your activity.
• Carry a means of communication where appropriate.
• Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.

RNLI Float to Live Advice

If you unexpectedly find yourself in difficulty in the water, remember the RNLI's Float to Live advice:

• Tilt your head back with your ears submerged.
• Relax and try to control your breathing.
• Use your hands to help you stay afloat.
• Once breathing is under control, call for help or swim to safety if you are able.

In an Emergency

If you see someone in difficulty at the coast: Call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

The Offshore Wind Sea Safety Campaign forms part of the wider English Riviera Beach Standards initiative, which aims to improve safety, accessibility and the visitor experience across Torbay's coastline.

Beach Guides Leaflet

As part of the initiative, we have also created a Tor Bay beach guide leaflet which features a beach map showing the location of all 27 beaches and hidden coves within the bay. The leaflets are on display around the bay in local businesses.

The leaflet also contains useful beach safety tips and important water safety information about the dangers of offshore winds.

Local businesses can request leaflets free of charge by filling out the form here.