Coastal Safety — Coastwatch Redcar

In an emergency

If you see someone in difficulty at sea or on the foreshore, dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard. Do not wait for Coastwatch — we assist HM Coastguard; we are not a rescue or lifeguard service.

Call 999

What Coastwatch is — and is not

We are an independent coastal surveillance station. Trained volunteer watchkeepers maintain a visual watch, VHF radio monitoring and radar coverage from our lookout, and liaise with Humber Coastguard on potential maritime incidents.

We are not a lifeguard service, a rescue boat, or a substitute for calling 999. We do not swim out to casualties or replace the emergency services.

If you are unsure whether a situation is serious, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard. Better a false alarm than a delayed response.

We do

Keep a visual watch on the coast
Monitor radio and radar
Log marine traffic and weather
Alert HM Coastguard when needed

We do not

Act as beach lifeguards
Launch rescue craft
Replace calling 999
Provide medical treatment

Redcar Rocks & the foreshore

Rising tides can cut off routes across the rocks quickly. Plan ahead before you go out.

1
Check the tide
Know high and low water times for Redcar before you set out. Sea conditions
2
Check the weather
Wind, swell and visibility change how safe the rocks feel. Rough conditions mean stay further back.
3
Tell someone your plans
Say where you are going and when you expect to be back.
4
Watch the water’s edge
Keep a safe distance in rough seas. Do not turn your back on incoming waves.
5
Use the webcam if you can
Members can view current sea conditions from the lookout. Webcam access

Before you go to the rocks

Check today’s tides and weather, or view the lookout webcam if you have membership access.