The RNLI is offering safety advice to beachgoers during the winter after lifeguards ended their patrols at four beaches in the Vale.
Sunday marked the end of the peak season for lifeguards based at Whitmore Bay in Barry Island, which have been held since Easter.
RNLI teams have also been patrolling the beaches at Southerndown, Llantwit Major and Ogmore-by-Sea since the end of June.
Only one Welsh beach - Whitesands Beach in Pembrokeshire will continue to be patrolled at weekends up until the October half term break.
But the RNLI is reminding visitors to the coast during autumn and winter that harsher conditions that can pose great risk - with bigger waves and stronger winds increasing the likelihood and strength of rip currents.
Chris Cousens, RNLI Water Safety Lead for Wales and the West, said: "As the season finishes for RNLI lifeguards in Wales, we’re asking people to continue to take care and be aware of the dangers."
"If you visit a beach outside of the lifeguard season, never go alone. It’s vital that you have company who could get help in the event of an emergency. Take note of safety signage at the entrance to the beach which will warn of the local risks and hazards, and if possibly speak to someone local who might be able to provide advice."
"Always check the weather conditions and tide times and consider your capabilities, if in doubt it is better to stay dry and watch the sea than take the risk."
"Always carry a means of contact such as a mobile phone, if you get into trouble or see anyone else in difficulty call 999 and ask for the Coastguard."
"We’re aware that cold water dipping is becoming increasingly popular. We strongly advise that you should never do this alone. As we get further into the winter months and the temperature continues to drop, the risk of cold-water shock will increase. Make sure you do not stay in the water for a prolonged period, and that you have means of warming up afterwards."
"If you get into trouble in the water, Float to Live. Tilt your head back with ears submerged and try to relax and control your breathing. Use your hands to help you stay afloat and then call for help or swim to safety if you can."
Temporary restrictions for the Merrie Harrier Junction
Community Libraries Mark Decade of Success Across the Vale
Senedd Members have backed calls to review Wales’ funding formula to increase fairness and transparency in how the nation is financed.
Plans have been filed to bring a prominent town centre building back into use, but it may not be forever
A4232 closures planned between Leckwith and Culverhouse Cross for urgent works
Barry Town United Members Back New Ownership Model in Landmark Vote
Belova app aims to bring people together across Cardiff and the Vale
Road rage arrest after driver allegedly threatened motorist with hammer on A4232
National Grid shares plans for new Aberthaw substation development
Petition to save ward at Llandough Hospital gains hundreds of signatures
Concerns Raised Over Plans to Remove Plans for Community Space From Former Barry Pub
Gas Pipe Upgrade Work in Dinas Powys Approaching Completion
Tributes Paid to Barry Athletic Stalwart Terry Collins
New ALN Sixth Form Opens in Vale as Education Minister Visits New School
Jepkosgei sets new course record as Cardiff Half Marathon welcomes record international field
Bro Radio partners with Hospital Radio Glamorgan for Cardiff Half Marathon coverage
Cardiff and Vale Scouts Celebrate Big Birthday Bash
Senedd Members reject Reform bid to scrap 20mph speed limits
Barry Town Council Cuts Public Opening Hours After Rise in Abuse Towards Staff
