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RNLI urges public to stay safe ahead of Storm Jocelyn

Lifeboats News Release

Quickly following Storm Isha, the UK and Ireland will be hit by Storm Jocelyn this week and the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) is asking those visiting the coast to continue being cautious of the dangers.

RNLI/Stephen Duncombe

Porthcawl Atlantic 85 in stormy seas.

As the winds from Storm Isha started to ease, Met Éireann has named Storm Jocelyn, set to bring strong winds and rain to much of the UK and Ireland.

Amber and yellow weather warnings have been issued for wind and rain, covering much of the UK and Ireland, with gusts up to 80mph expected in northwestern Scotland.

The strong winds are expected to ease on Wednesday afternoon.

For those who plan to visit the coast this week, the strong gusts pose a significant risk to safety and the lifesaving charity is urging the public to exercise extreme caution, particularly along exposed cliffs, seafronts and piers.

RNLI National Water Safety Partner, Tim Doran said: ‘This week’s predicted weather could lead to dangerous and uncertain conditions as strong winds and heavy rain hit the UK and Ireland.

‘If you plan on visiting the coast, the RNLI advise the public to stay a safe distance from the water as conditions could knock you off your feet or wash you into the sea. It is not worth risking your life.

'Cold water shock is a very real danger for anyone entering water that is 15°C or below and at this time of year, we can expect temperatures of 6 to 10°C. If you find yourself in trouble unexpectedly in the water, remember to Float to Live; lie back in the water, extend your arms and legs and try to relax as best as you can until you get control of your breathing.

‘Remember, if you see someone else in danger in the water, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard if by the coast. If you have something that floats that they can hold on to, throw it to them. Don’t go in the water yourself – 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

Notes to Editor:

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.

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