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."
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