SEA rescuers have called on families and young people to be careful when visiting the coast during half term as winter conditions could put extra pressure on rescuers.
The RNLI and HM Coastguard's winter coastal safety campaign is urging people who are able to visit the coast under coronavirus restrictions to remain safe amid strong winds and rough seas.
There has been an increased number of rescues to walkers cut off by the tide in recent weeks, including a person who was rescued at the Great Orme in Llandudno after scrambling along low cliffs on Monday, February 8.
"With schools closed over the half-term and a break in online learning, it is likely we will see people lucky enough to live close to the coast using it to exercise," said Stuart Wallace, RNLI regional lifesaving lead for Wales. "We would urge them to familiarise themselves with local risks and be as safe as possible.
"Whether you are walking, running or cycling at the coast, please be extra responsible and avoid taking unnecessary risks."
Lockdown restrictions state that people are allowed to exercise outdoors if they start at their front door and remain as close as possible to the home, and must not involve driving to a location away from home.
Key water safety advice issued by the RNLI includes checking tide times daily, taking a fully-charged phone, taking extra care around cliff edges, being aware of weather conditions, and only entering the sea according your capability and if the water is safe to do so.
Chris Cousens, RNLI water safety lead for Wales, said: "In particular at this time of year, 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."
For more information visit www.rnli.org/safety
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