A coastguard rescue officer and a member of the public talking at the coast
Coastal safety
Autumn provides the perfect backdrop for a walk along the coast, but it is important to be aware of the potential dangers at all times.
Coastal safety
Coastguard rescue officers on the Northern Irish coast
Join the Coastguard
At HM Coastguard we’re always on the lookout for new talent. From volunteer positions to full-time careers, there are many ways to get involved depending on what suits you.
Join HM Coastguard
Surfer in a wet suit standing in tall grass by the sea
Sam's Coastguard
When an experienced paddleboarder headed out, he grabbed his phone and put it in a waterproof pouch. That decision would save his life…
Sam's story
Fisherman Hero
Their Coastguard
It started out as a normal day for these commercial fishermen, but the smallest of slips turned their day into an overboard ordeal.
Sidney Rose story
our coastguard
Our Coastguard
Dawn and her family are all coastguards. When the pager goes off, they report for duty fulfilling different roles in HM Coastguard.
Dawn's story
Emergency at the coast

Call 999 - ask for the Coastguard

Like the police, fire and ambulance, we’re an emergency service with the same 999 number.
What to do in an emergency
Stay safe

Know where the dangers lie

Whatever your reason for being at the coast, there are dangers where you wouldn't expect them.
See our safety advice
Your Coastguard

Join the Coastguard Rescue Service

Our volunteers come from all walks of life and our teams are on call 24/7 to help keep people safe.
Volunteer as a coastguard
How to send an emergency SMS

In an emergency at the coast

Call 999 and ask for the Coastguard. If you are deaf or have a speech impairment, you can send an emergency SMS.

 

Our safety advice

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Beach

man on beach with child
The beach can be fun for everyone, but there are still dangers to be aware of and things to consider.
Check out our beach safety advice for top tips on staying safe.
Beach safety advice

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Coast

Father and sons walking along coastal path in summer
The UK's coast is a beautiful place to explore but are you aware of the risks?
Find out more about staying safe at the coast.
Coastal safety advice

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Sea

kayaker
There are many ways to enjoy the sea, from paddleboarding to swimming.
Check out our sea safety advice for top tips on staying safe.
Sea safety advice

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Onboard

child on a boat
From motorboats to yachts, there’s a lot to consider on board in order to keep crew and passengers safe.
Our onboard safety advice will ensure you are well prepared.
Onboard safety advice
News and media

Highlights from HM Coastguard

See all news and updates
coastguard on the beach

We do more than you'd think

HM Coastguard is much more than a 999 emergency service. Learn more about how we protect people, our coast and the environment.
Search and rescue
Maritime security
Vessel traffic management
Counter pollution and salvage
Receiver of wreck
Civil emergency and disaster response
International work
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