RNLI urges public to stay safe during stormy new year weather

RNLI crew onboard inshore lifeboat crashing through the waves © RNLI

The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) is urging anyone visiting the coast to be aware of the potential dangers with high winds forecast to hit large parts of the UK.

RNLI volunteer lifeboat crews have remained on call 24/7 throughout the festive period, as well as training for whatever weather winter throws at them when the pager goes off. RNLI lifeguards also continue to patrol Crosby beach, in Merseyside 365 days a year.

Between Christmas Eve and Sunday 29 December, RNLI lifeboats around the UK and Ireland launched 43 times, including nine times on Christmas Day.

And with a Met Office yellow weather warning for strong winds across the UK on New Year's Eve and New Year's Day, the lifesaving charity is urging the public to exercise caution at the coast.

Chris Cousens, Regional Water Safety Lead at the RNLI, said: 'We know the predicted high winds are likely to lead to dangerous coastal conditions.

'If you plan on visiting the coast on New Year's Eve or New Year's Day, the RNLI advises you to be aware of the local risks and weather conditions.

'If you find yourself in trouble in the water, remember to Float to Live; lie back in the water, extend your arms and legs and try to relax as best you can until you get control of your breathing.

'If you see someone else in danger in the water, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard. If you have something that floats that they can hold on to, throw it to them. Don't go in the water yourself as you may end up in difficulty too.'

The RNLI's safety advice is:

• Stay well back from stormy, wintery seas and cliff edges
• Check the weather forecast and tide times before you go
• Take a phone with you
• In an emergency, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard