RNLI offer coastal safety advice ahead of back-to-back storm warnings

The lifesaving charity is encouraging people to exercise extreme caution if visiting the shoreline, especially along exposed cliffs, seafronts and piers with winds expected to hit 90mph.

Storm Dudley is due to affect Ireland, Scotland, Northern Ireland and parts of northern England tomorrow afternoon (Wednesday), with Storm Eunice close behind and bringing a weather warning for most of the UK and Ireland on Friday.

RNLI National Water Safety Partner, Samantha Hughes said: ‘The expected storms could make our seas treacherous, increasing the risk for those visiting the coast around the UK and Ireland.

‘In a normal year around, 150 people lose their lives at the coast and we know that more than half of those never intended to be in the water. So, whether you are walking, running or cycling at the coast, please be extra responsible and avoid taking unnecessary risk or entering the water.

‘In particular, we ask people to stay well back from stormy, wintery seas and cliff edges, check tide times before you go, take a phone with you, and call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard if you or someone else is in trouble.’

Met Office Chief Meteorologist Paul Gundersen said: ‘An active jet stream is driving these two low-pressure systems across the country this week and a number of National Severe Weather Warnings have been issued.

‘Storm Dudley will impact the northern half of the UK from Wednesday afternoon through to Thursday, while Storm Eunice will bring strong winds and potentially some snow for parts of the country on Friday. You can keep up to date with the weather warnings and potential impacts in your area via our website, or by following us on Twitter and Facebook.’

The RNLI’s key water safety advice is:

• Take care if walking near cliffs – be aware of ice and frost, know your route and keep dogs on a lead.
• Check weather forecasts and tide times daily.
• Take a fully charged phone.
• Check your equipment is in good working order.
• Be aware of the conditions and your capabilities.
• In an emergency call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.

Notes to editor:

• Stock imagery and footage from previous storms available upon request.
• Footage shows Fowey's all-weather lifeboat tackling tough weather during a training exercise on Sunday 13 February.

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,000 lives.

Learn more about the RNLI

For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. News releases, videos and photos are available on the News Centre.

Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries

Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.