But Blackpool Beach Patrol are using the leisure vehicles – more commonly associated with the affluent, posing playboy lifestyle – to help protect the public from the perils of the sea.

This year's new additions to the lifesaving fleet – the first ones along the Lancashire coastline – are expected to make regular appearances on the seafront throughout the season.

Terry Rogers, head of Blackpool Beach Patrol, said jet skis were a welcome addition to their fleet.

He said: "Both the jet ski and the quad bikes are a great way of getting to people quicker and therefore helping to save lives.

"We have already used the equipment towards the end of last season and they are expected to play a full role throughout this coming season."

The jet ski has already helped guide a dinghy with four boys inside, which was drifting out to sea in an offshore wind, back to safety.

The new equipment is being used alongside Landrovers and pedal cycles – which are currently used.

Mr Rogers said the jet ski was also a good way of keeping a higher profile between the piers while other jet skiers were out at sea.

"The fact that we are out there means that if anything happens we will get to people quicker. When the Coastguard is called they will contact us to see if we are in the location. Sometimes it means we can get to the scene before the inshore lifeboat."

All the beach patrol staff are trained by the Royal Yachting Association. The jet ski is a three-seater craft so the rider can stay with the vehicle while a pillion can help tow a stray vessel such as a dinghy, or rescue someone who has got into difficulties.

The quad bikes are used to navigate the stretches of sand along the whole of the seafront. They can also go along the promenades if there is an emergency situation anywhere along the beach.

Mr Rogers added: "The whole idea of this equipment is so that we can get to the scene far quicker on the jet ski or quad bikes. They have already helped save lives in the short time we have been using them.

"We feel our presence out there helps reduce the chance of accidents as people on jet skis tend to drive them more responsibly once they realise that we are out there.

"I'm sure they will both be extremely valu-able in helping save lives this coming year."