RNLI & Coastguards share a summer safety message

Training matters when it comes to saving lives at sea. When HM Coastguard trains together with the RNLI, it matters. Together we make a rescue force to be reckoned with.

Steve Hart, Senior Coastal Operations Officer for HM Coastguard says: ‘We want everyone to enjoy the coast – we love it too. Don’t forget though it can be a dangerous and unforgiving place for the unwary – check tides, look at local information about currents. But people do get caught out. That’s why we’ve got your back. It’s why we train. We’re ready to help, to search, to rescue and to save.’

Helen Williams, RNLI Area Lifesaving Manager - Wearside & North Yorkshire, says: ‘There are around 165 accidental drownings around the UK each year. As we head to the summer holidays we want to remind people to stay safe when they visit the North Yorkshire coast. The beach is a great place to visit and relax during your time off but we urge people to be aware of the dangers.’

Helen Williams adds: ‘Our advice is to always swim at a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags. If you see someone in difficulty raise the alarm by alerting a nearby lifeguard or calling 999 and asking for the coastguard.  If you find yourself in trouble, FLOAT, remember to Respect the Water.’

Call 999 and ask for the Coastguard if you’re in trouble or you see someone else who is. We’re ready to help, to search, to rescue and to save.