Reports of young people scaling sea walls and swimming during Storm Eunice
HM Coastguard and Cornwall Council have issued a joint safety plea
Last updated 18th Feb 2022
HM Coastguard and Cornwall Council have issued a joint plea for people to stay away from the coast as Storm Eunice batters the UK.
There have been multiple reports of people at the waterline taking pictures of the waves, and even of families standing by the surf line with their children.
Cornwall was one of two areas to be under a red 'danger to life' weather warning from the Met Office, with gusts in excess of 90mph.
The red alerts have since lifted, however an amber weather warning for strong winds will be in force in the Duchy until 9pm on Friday 18th February.
In its latest 'major incident' briefing, Cornwall Council said reports of young people climbing sea walls and even swimming in the sea had been received.
Cornwall Council said: "With reports of young people climbing onto sea walls and people swimming in the sea, the Coastguard and Police are imploring people to stay away from coastal areas and seafronts – and to not put their own or rescuers lives at risk".
HM Coastguard Tactical Commander Ben Hambling said: “The reports we are receiving are absolutely terrifying. In these conditions all it takes is one wave.
“A dramatic photograph or selfie is not worth risking your life for and those who are going to the coast to take pictures are also putting our teams at risk.
“We are urging people in the strongest possible terms to stay away from the coast".
"If you do get into trouble or believe anybody to be in difficulty at the coast or at sea, please call 999 and ask for the Coastguard".
You can follow all the Storm Eunice updates for Cornwall on our live blog.