The National Coastwatch Institution has Water Safety Officers who liaise with agencies that include the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, H.M. Coastguard, lifeguards and other water-safety bodies. Together, we aim to increase public awareness of safety issues along the coast as part of the #RESPECTTHEWATER campaign.

We are the “eyes along the coast” providing a daylight lookout to see and respond to anyone needing help on the coast or at sea but ideally such situations would never arise.

Accidents do happen. To help reduce them safety advice for all those using these areas could help to save lives.

Why not try the quiz below and share this with family and friends so as to increase knowledge of the dangers and how to avoid them.

We want everyone to enjoy the coast and sea safely in this beautiful area.

Water Safety Quiz

Q1: What does a red flag flying on a beach indicate?

Q2: How would you signal if you were in distress and need assistance?

Q3:Where is the best place to keep your phone when you are boating?

Q4: What number would you dial to contact the Coastguard in an emergency?

Q5: If walking on the coast alone – what would you do before leaving home?

Q6: “FLOAT TO LIVE” encourages you to take what position in the water?

Water Safety Quiz Answers

Q1: What does a red flag 🚩 flying on a beach indicate?
Do not enter the water.

Q2: How would you signal if you were in distress and need assistance? 
Wave outstretched arms up and down and call “HELP”. If you are swimming – raise one arm up straight and call “HELP”.

Q3:Where is the best place to keep your phone when you are boating? 
Keep your phone on you in a waterproof pouch. You may need it urgently – if it is in a bag or backpack these items may not be accessible when you need to raise an alarm.

Q4: What number would you dial to contact the Coastguard in an emergency? 
Dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

Q5: If walking on the coast alone – what would you do before leaving home? 
Check the weather and plan a route. Let someone know where you are going and estimated time of return.

Q6: “FLOAT TO LIVE” encourages you to take what position in the water? 
Lie on your back. Control your breathing. Fight your instinct to swim hard.

REMEMBER if in difficulty in the water, FLOAT TO LIVE!