27/08/2010
Sea Safety Urged Over Holidays
A Bank Holiday weekend warning has been issued with the UK's Maritime Minister Mike Penning and the Coastguard urging those planning a trip to the seaside to take care, following a large number of beach and cliff incidents during the summer break.
Incidents over the summer have ranged from individuals being caught out by the tide on beaches in Newquay to the tragedy of a young boy lost in the seas off Blackpool, and coastguards are continuing to encourage parents to keep a close eye on their children on the beaches this weekend.
Climbing on rocks and cliffs often attracts more adventurous beach goers, but can lead to people getting into difficulty.
Coastguards have recently come to the rescue of several members of the public attempting to climb cliffs, but finding themselves unable to complete the journey.
The use of inflatables is also a common cause of problems - it only takes a few seconds for a dinghy or lilo to be swept away and less than that for it to flip over and leave someone in the water a long way from shore.
The Maritime Minister said: "Everybody enjoys a trip to the seaside and most pass off without anything worse than a bit of sunburn or some soggy sandwiches. I know most people realise that there are dangers to be aware of on our coast - but everyone also thinks that it won't be them who get into difficulty.
"My message is simple- if you're on the beach this weekend, think carefully about what you and your children are doing.
"We can't wrap everyone up in cotton wool but a bit of thought and extra care can sometimes be the difference between a fun day out and a tragedy," he said.
"We have an amazing coastline in this country and I'd like to thank all those who work to help us enjoy it safely."
(BMcC/GK)
Incidents over the summer have ranged from individuals being caught out by the tide on beaches in Newquay to the tragedy of a young boy lost in the seas off Blackpool, and coastguards are continuing to encourage parents to keep a close eye on their children on the beaches this weekend.
Climbing on rocks and cliffs often attracts more adventurous beach goers, but can lead to people getting into difficulty.
Coastguards have recently come to the rescue of several members of the public attempting to climb cliffs, but finding themselves unable to complete the journey.
The use of inflatables is also a common cause of problems - it only takes a few seconds for a dinghy or lilo to be swept away and less than that for it to flip over and leave someone in the water a long way from shore.
The Maritime Minister said: "Everybody enjoys a trip to the seaside and most pass off without anything worse than a bit of sunburn or some soggy sandwiches. I know most people realise that there are dangers to be aware of on our coast - but everyone also thinks that it won't be them who get into difficulty.
"My message is simple- if you're on the beach this weekend, think carefully about what you and your children are doing.
"We can't wrap everyone up in cotton wool but a bit of thought and extra care can sometimes be the difference between a fun day out and a tragedy," he said.
"We have an amazing coastline in this country and I'd like to thank all those who work to help us enjoy it safely."
(BMcC/GK)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:After a dry start this morning rain will spread from the northwest across all parts. This afternoon will be dull with some patchy rain and drizzle. Becoming much milder through the afternoon. Maximum temperature 11 °C.Tonight:A cloudy evening and night with a little light rain or drizzle, perhaps some clear periods developing along the east coast. A very mild night everywhere. Minimum temperature 10 °C.