Burnham-on-Sea RNLI volunteers recently took part in lifejacket training.

The opportunity arose when lifejackets were due for service, coinciding with a need for practical training.

A session was scheduled on Sunday, October 13 at Burnham-on-Sea swimming pool.

The volunteers were put through their paces in various situations, including checking, packing, and changing CO2 cylinders, as well as learning how to swim efficiently in a fully inflated lifejacket.

Training co-ordinator Nathan Meager outlined the importance of the session.

He said: "As part of our RNLI assessments to be lifeboat crew, we have to show competence in a number of drills in the sea survival centre at the RNLI’s headquarters every five years.

"These drills include jumping into the pool from height with full personal protection equipment, swimming in an inflated lifejacket, demonstrating use of lifejacket and spray hood, self recovery, use of life rafts and assisting others in difficulty.

(Image: RNLI) "All this is done with waves, water being sprayed at you and the sounds of a storm.

"Sunday’s session was preparation for this, as we have a number of crew going to the college over the next few months.

"It was also a chance for non-boat crew to experience lifejacket use and what it is like to swim in their kit.

"The session was a great team building activity and it takes a team to make training like this happen."

Volunteer lifeboat press officer Mike Lang added: "The session was at no cost to the charity."

(Image: RNLI)