HM Coastguard is called to around 36,000 incidents each year – with peak times happening in bank holidays, half terms and school holidays. Of the incidents we see, thousands happen as a result of tidal cut off or along the clifftops and cliff bases due to slips, trips and falls.
Our Coast Clever campaign aims to caution people about coastal risks, especially mud, offshore winds, tides and cliffs. We focus on coastal unfamiliarity and what simple steps can be made to help keep you safe.
We hope to communicate coastal dangers to everyone, but especially to under 30 year olds and those who are more likely to be involved in accidents at the coast.
Incoming tides don’t just come in from out at sea – they can also sneak up behind you and cut off your exit route, leaving you stranded and in danger. By knowing when it’s high and low tide, you can make sure you’ll get back in plenty of time without putting yourself at risk.
Cliffs are often more unstable than they look, and rockslides or cliff falls can happen at any time. Stay safe, keep well back from cliff edges and a good distance from the bases of cliffs.
Along the coast, mud or quicksand often just looks like wet sand and can easily be mistaken. Never cross mud or quicksand as a shortcut – you can easily get stuck. Combine a sticky situation with an incoming tide, and the results could be disastrous… If you do get stuck in mud, stay still, lean back and spread your weight.
All that's left to do is stay coast clever and enjoy your visit, wherever you're heading and at whatever time of year.
In an emergency along the coast, always call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.
