Cornish residents reminded to stay safe around coastal areas this Christmas
HM Coastguard and the RNLI have teamed up to help visitors to the Duchy stay safe when on its coasts and beaches this winter
Residents in Cornwall are being reminded to stay well back from stormy, wintery seas and cliff edges as part of a campaign led by HM Coastguard and the RNLI.
It has launched its Winter Coastal Safety Campaign to remind people in the Duchy about how incredibly dangerous the coast and sea can be - from changing tides and rough winter seas to unstable and eroding clifftop edges.
Tips for those who wish to journey to such places of Christmas are to check tide times before you go, take a phone with you, and get home safely.
"Before you set-off, make sure you’re wearing appropriate footwear and carrying a fully-charged mobile phone so that you have a means of contacting family, friends or dialling 999 and asking for the coastguard, in a coastal emergency.
"Always let people know when you’ll be back home too and don’t be tempted to take a risky photo by a cliff edge or large waves for social media, it could be the last moment you ever capture.
"If the worst happens on the coast, we’ll always be there – ready and waiting to respond. Just dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.
"But we really need you to do your bit so please take note of our safety advice and follow government guidance. Add a ‘coastal safety checklist’ to your Christmas list and you’ll be primed for action."
Spokesperson, HM Coastguard in partnership with RNLI
It is also asking residents and visitors to try and become familiar with the area you’re visiting by reading local safety information, warnings and advice, and also check tide timings online before you go so that you don’t get caught out.
Open spaces are ideal for dog walking but its urging owners to keep them on a lead. If your pet does get into danger, do not attempt to self-rescue your animal or enter the water after your pet. Call 999 Coastguard and ask for assistance.
“We are prepared and ready, as always, to deal with all emergency situations. But please take note of our safety advice and don’t take risks, be responsible for your actions and follow the Government’s Covid-19 guidance.”
Claire Hughes, Director of HM Coastguard