HM Coastguard respond to nearly 450 incidents during busiest weekend of 2020
HM Coastguard responded
to 447 incidents over the weekend (May 30 – May 31) to help people who found
themselves in difficulty making it the busiest of 2020 to date.
Sunday saw a
168% increase on the May 2019 average with 241 incidents making it the busiest
day of the year so far and Saturday was the second busiest day of the year with
206 incidents.
Over the
weekend the search and rescue helicopters were involved in 50 incidents and
lifeboats were involved in 202 call outs.
HM Coastguard Duty
Commander Matt Leat said: “Very high numbers of people took to the beaches,
coast and sea this weekend which led to a huge increase in the number of
incidents.
“Boating,
swimming and other sea-based activities are now allowed again across the UK, as
is spending time on the beach. However, now more than ever, people need to
respect the sea and the coast to ensure the safety of themselves and their
families.
“Regardless of
how well you know the coast, or how experienced you are in your chosen sport,
the sea can still catch you out.
“If you are
visiting the beach with your children, have fun but stay safe. Make sure you
have sight of your children at all times.
“In addition, the
Government guidelines around social distancing should continue to be observed
by everyone in the UK.”
If you get into trouble at sea or on the coast call 999 and ask for the
Coastguard and we will come to your aid. But coronavirus hasn’t gone away and
we all need to follow the rules.
Remember your choices might put people, including yourself and frontline
responders, at risk. Take extra care in these extraordinary times. #BeBeachSafe