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Today’s focus is: water safety Cliff and coastal walking Cliffs can be more unstable than they look, cliff falls or landslides happen without warning. Reduce the risks: Stay well back from cliff edges.Take note of warning signs.Be aware that strong gusts of wind may affect your balance and can be fatalStick to the signposted coastal paths – avoid informal or unsigned paths leading down to beaches as these can be dangerous.Wear suitable shoes and clothing, and take food and water. Take a fully charged mobile phone with you.Be extra careful in the dark and if paths are slippery.Never climb a cliff as a shortcut to the top.Tell someone where you’re going and when you’re likely to be back.If you get into difficulty, call 999 and ask for the CoastguardIf you see someone in trouble in the water or on the coastIf you’re at a lifeguarded beach tell the lifeguardOr call 999 and ask for the Coastguard Don’t hang up – stay on the line and keep the person in sightDon’t enter the water, stay back from rough seasIf the person is in the water tell them to float on their back with their arms and legs out and to stay as calm as possible - remember Float to Live Look for lifesaving equipment such as lifebelts or throwbags; hold onto the end of the rope before throwing it in If the person is unconscious and not breathing you may need to start CPR Don’t try and rescue a person or animal from cliffs or mud - call 999 and ask for the CoastguardFind out more here: Safety advice | HM Coastguard UK |
