Chief coastguard urges public to 'be aware of the risks' this summer

AS residents and holidaymakers flock to beaches across Dumfries and Galloway during the summer, a safety campaign from HM Coastguard is urging visitors to stay safe by following simple safety advice at the coast. With some of the fastest tidal movements in Europe, the Solway Firth is considered pretty dangerous. Through posters, safety messaging and case studies, HM Coastguard’s Coast Clever summer safety campaign warns of coastal dangers and hazards, including cliff falls, tidal cut-offs, offshore winds and mud. Last year, HM Coastguard responded to over 600 tidal cut off incidents. Chief coastguard Pat O’Callaghan said: “Each year, HM Coastguard responds to reports of people in danger at the coast, but many of these situations can be avoided. Through our Coast Clever campaign, we’re aiming to provide essential tips and guidance to help keep people safe this summer. “We’d like the public to enjoy the warmer weather and our wonderful coastline, but they need to be aware of the risks. Mud, tides, cliffs and offshore winds can very quickly put lives in danger. If you need help during a coastal emergency, call 999 and ask for Coastguard.” HM Coastguard recommends that those visiting the coast follow simple safety advice to avoid hazards. Guidance include:Checking the weather forecast and tide times before you set off; Staying clear of cliff edges and bases; Watching out for mud and if you do get stuck, lean back to spread your weight; Avoiding water sports in an offshore wind, when the wind blows from the land out to sea; Telling someone where you are going and when you’ll be back; And taking a fully charged mobile phone and consider taking a PLB (personal locator beacon) which alerts the emergency services from the remotest of locations . In a coastal emergency, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.