Across the UK our volunteers and staff are on call 24/7, 365 days a year.
From water rescues to major incident response, Coastguard Rescue Teams are always ready to respond and support those in need.
This Volunteers Week we’re looking back at just some of the different ways Coastguard Rescue Officers have come to the rescue recently, sometimes alongside their emergency services family, in an unwavering commitment to keep their communities safe.
NORTH SEA VESSEL COLLISION
In March, HM Coastguard coordinated the response to an allision between the vessels Solong and Stena Immaculate off the coast of East Yorkshire.
Following the incident small pellets of plastic resin – nurdles – were detected across the Norfolk and Lincolnshire coastlines, and Coastguard Rescue Officers were quick to assist with the clean-up effort and protecting the environment.
BAD WEATHER AND FLOODING
In January, Coastguard Rescue Officers were quickly deployed to support fellow emergency services responding to major flooding in the Somerset town of Chard as it was struck by heavy wind and rain.
As part of the multi-agency response around 150 properties were evacuated, including two care homes, and welfare checks were carried out on affected residents.
ORDNANCE
Weird and wonderful items are always washing up on our shorelines and, once suspected ordnance has been reported to HM Coastguard, the local team is able to provide safety cover and work with the relevant authorities to reach a conclusion.
In just a few months volunteers have responded to reports of ordnance all across the country, including beaches in Teignmouth, Littlehampton, Canvey Island, Clacton and Worthing.
SAFETY AND TRAINING
When they’re not responding to an incident or providing assistance with partners, Coastguard Rescue Officers may engage with local events and schools, providing safety advice and answering questions about coastal safety and the role of HM Coastguard.
To make sure our Coastguard Rescue Officers are always ready to respond to lifesaving situations they also undertake a range of training.
Thank you to our volunteers for everything you do.
