One of those CROs is Tony Phillips who, like many all around the UK, goes the extra mile to share safety tips with the younger generation so they might never need rescuing in the first place.
Tony, who is a member of Littlehampton Coastguard Rescue Team, said: “Over the last couple of years I have been asking schools, clubs and other groups if they would like water safety lessons.
“I've been pushing the water safety campaign, as an ex-lifeguard and competition swimmer. Water safety and keeping people safe around water is my first priority.”
• Read about HM Coastguard’s Coast Clever campaign
The last two visits before the summer holidays were in West Sussex, ranging across the ages: Barnham Primary School and St Philip Howard Catholic School, also in Barnham.
The primary school is a regular stop for Tony and his fellow CROs who have visited twice a year for the last three years, spreading their coastal safety knowhow to hundreds of youngsters living near the sea.
Tony said: “We always get a great welcome. All the children take everything on board and get hands-on experience with the kit we use.
“They all learn that in an emergency by the coast you should call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.
• Read about how to stay safe by the coast
“They also understand some of the dangers by the shore – like tidal cut-off, rip currents, and the dangers of tombstoning – as well as the important knowledge of beach flags and the role of HM Coastguard.”
The visiting CROs even share with the older pupils some information about the range of jobs at HM Coastguard and the potential career opportunities.
Everyone comes out full of everything they need to be safe and vigilant when around water and what to do in an emergency.
• If you see an emergency by the coast, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.
Main photo: Tony Phillips (left) and Chris Dunn
