Menu
24/07/2014
Highest Number Of Coastal Deaths Recorded In Four Years
167 people lost their lives at the coast last year, the highest number in four years, according to the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI).
The charity is launching a drowning awareness campaign today, Respect the Water, warning people to stay safe this summer.
An average of 160 people die at the coast each year and the RNLI is aiming to halve the number of accidental coastal deaths by 2024.
In total, 640 people have died around the UK coast over the past four years. The fatality figures show a clear gender divide, with adult men accounting for over two-thirds (68%) of these deaths.
Ross Macleod, the RNLI's Coastal Safety Manager, said: "With more people losing their lives at the coast each year than are killed in cycling accidents, we're trying to make people, particularly men, realise that they are at risk from drowning if they don't follow some basic but important safety advice.
"We want people to go to the coast and enjoy it – we're lucky to have an exceptional coastline around the UK – but we want them to understand there are risks, and that they should not underestimate the power of the sea.
"Our key advice is to choose a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags, where you'll have professional lifeguards looking out for you. If you want a few drinks in the sun on the beach, remember that alcohol and water don't mix, so drink after swimming, not before.
"Remember that, despite warm air temperatures, the UK sea temperature is cold enough year-round to trigger cold water shock, so acclimatise gradually in shallow water. Don't over-estimate your ability – the sea is a very different environment to a pool and even the strongest swimmers can tire quickly.
"If you get caught in a rip current, don't panic or try to swim against it; swim parallel to the shore until you're free. To avoid falls, stay away from cliff edges, stick to pathways and read safety signs."
(CD/JP)
The charity is launching a drowning awareness campaign today, Respect the Water, warning people to stay safe this summer.
An average of 160 people die at the coast each year and the RNLI is aiming to halve the number of accidental coastal deaths by 2024.
In total, 640 people have died around the UK coast over the past four years. The fatality figures show a clear gender divide, with adult men accounting for over two-thirds (68%) of these deaths.
Ross Macleod, the RNLI's Coastal Safety Manager, said: "With more people losing their lives at the coast each year than are killed in cycling accidents, we're trying to make people, particularly men, realise that they are at risk from drowning if they don't follow some basic but important safety advice.
"We want people to go to the coast and enjoy it – we're lucky to have an exceptional coastline around the UK – but we want them to understand there are risks, and that they should not underestimate the power of the sea.
"Our key advice is to choose a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags, where you'll have professional lifeguards looking out for you. If you want a few drinks in the sun on the beach, remember that alcohol and water don't mix, so drink after swimming, not before.
"Remember that, despite warm air temperatures, the UK sea temperature is cold enough year-round to trigger cold water shock, so acclimatise gradually in shallow water. Don't over-estimate your ability – the sea is a very different environment to a pool and even the strongest swimmers can tire quickly.
"If you get caught in a rip current, don't panic or try to swim against it; swim parallel to the shore until you're free. To avoid falls, stay away from cliff edges, stick to pathways and read safety signs."
(CD/JP)
Related UK National News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
14 April 2003
Driver loses Selby rail crash appeal
Gary Hart has lost a challenge in Court of Appeal against his conviction over his part in causing the Selby rail crash. The 38-year-old driver from Strubby in Lincolnshire was jailed for five years for causing 10 deaths by dangerous driving at Leeds Crown Court.
Driver loses Selby rail crash appeal
Gary Hart has lost a challenge in Court of Appeal against his conviction over his part in causing the Selby rail crash. The 38-year-old driver from Strubby in Lincolnshire was jailed for five years for causing 10 deaths by dangerous driving at Leeds Crown Court.
20 February 2013
Fallen Power Lines Cause Major Delays On Key Rail Route
Fallen overhead power lines have major delays on one of UK’s key railway routes, with thousands of passengers being advised not to travel. The east coast mainline between London and Peterborough has not been able to run any trains following a power line failure in St Neots in Cambridgeshire.
Fallen Power Lines Cause Major Delays On Key Rail Route
Fallen overhead power lines have major delays on one of UK’s key railway routes, with thousands of passengers being advised not to travel. The east coast mainline between London and Peterborough has not been able to run any trains following a power line failure in St Neots in Cambridgeshire.
26 May 2009
Six Injured In Racecourse Crash
Six people have been taken to hospital following an accident at Goodwood racecourse. South East Coast Ambulance said five people were taken to St Richards Hospital, Chichester, two with crush injuries, following the incident which took place at midday in Monday.
Six Injured In Racecourse Crash
Six people have been taken to hospital following an accident at Goodwood racecourse. South East Coast Ambulance said five people were taken to St Richards Hospital, Chichester, two with crush injuries, following the incident which took place at midday in Monday.
10 May 2012
77 Years For Rochdale Child Sex Gang
The nine men found guilty of operating a child sexual exploitation ring have been jailed for a total of 77 years. The trial, which ended on Tuesday, heard how the men groomed young vulnerable girls in Rochdale.
77 Years For Rochdale Child Sex Gang
The nine men found guilty of operating a child sexual exploitation ring have been jailed for a total of 77 years. The trial, which ended on Tuesday, heard how the men groomed young vulnerable girls in Rochdale.
08 June 2006
Sentence increased for baby rapist
A man who raped a 12-week-old baby girl has had his minimum jail term increased from six years to eight years by the Court of Appeal.
Sentence increased for baby rapist
A man who raped a 12-week-old baby girl has had his minimum jail term increased from six years to eight years by the Court of Appeal.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
