Humber Coastguard

30/05/2026

It’s looking like it’s going to be another hot one! ☀️! Hot weather and busy beaches can be disorientating for younger children.

It’s not uncommon for little ones to get lost in crowds, but these tips can help reunite you if you do become separated:

Take a photo on arrival so you have an up-to-date reference to show authorities (and a handy reminder of what they were wearing) 📸

Agree a meeting point if you get lost 📍

Use beach wristbands and write your contact number on them so you can be called and reunited if you get separated 🙋

Make sure that everyone in the group knows to call 999 if they’re in trouble 📞

Wristbands can be ordered from our web shop for free. Get yours here: bit.ly/HMCGwristbands

25/04/2026

An increase in seals along England’s east coast has led to a surge in calls to HM Coastguard 🌊🦭

With this beautiful weather continuing, it’s quite likely you’ll spot seals relaxing on our beaches. While it’s lovely to see, many people are calling the Coastguard thinking the seals are injured when in most cases, they’re simply resting.

Michael Niblett from HM Coastguard said:
“If you do see an injured seal, please contact BDMLR (British Divers Marine Life Rescue). We’ve had a high number of calls recently about seals that turned out to be perfectly fine. Seals often come ashore to rest, and approaching them can actually cause them stress or even lead to aggressive behaviour.”

“Please think carefully before calling 999 for the Coastguard about a seal that appears healthy. It can take valuable time away from genuine emergencies.”

Of course, if you ever see someone in danger at the coast or you’re in trouble yourself call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

(Photo credit: Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust)

05/04/2026

Heading out for a coastal walk this bank holiday? 🚶

Make sure to check the tide times before you go.

Tides can catch you out by surprise. Water can rise quickly and cut you off, leaving you trapped in bays, coves, or on sandbanks.

Familiarise yourself with all the exit points and keep an eye out on which direction the tide is heading.

If you find yourself trapped by the tide, or in any coastal emergency, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

13/01/2026

HM Coastguard received a mayday call shortly before 4.20pm (Sunday, 11 January) from a fishing vessel reporting that two members of its crew had gone overboard. The incident occurred approximately 14 miles off the coast of Newbiggin, Northumberland.

A coordinated multi-agency response was immediately launched. HM Coastguard deployed a search and rescue helicopter and a fixed-wing aircraft to the scene. RNLI lifeboats from Amble and Tynemouth were also tasked, alongside two nearby vessels that responded to mayday relay broadcasts issued by the Coastguard.

Blyth Coastguard Rescue Team, North East Ambulance Service and Northumbria Police also attended as part of the response.

The Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) has been informed and enquiries into the circumstances are ongoing.

For further information, please contact the police.

📸- Stock Image - Humber Coastguard

04/01/2026

Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with all those affected by this tragedy, particularly the families and friends of Sarah, Grace, and Mark, and the communities who are grieving. When our rescue teams are called out, they strive to search, rescue, and save, responding with professionalism, dedication, and compassion in the most challenging circumstances.

HM Coastguard crews worked tirelessly and did everything within their power to help those involved, but despite these efforts, it is with great sadness that Sarah, Grace, and Mark could not be saved. We recognise the profound impact of this loss and keep everyone affected firmly in our thoughts.

Following reports of concerns for safety for people in the water in Withernsea, with the permission of the family, Humberside Police can now confirm that a mother and daughter, 45-year-old Sarah Keeling and 15-year-old Grace Keeling, were involved in this tragic incident, alongside 67-year-old Mark Ratcliffe, a member of the public who died trying to assist with the rescue.

The bodies of Sarah Keeling and Mark Ratcliffe were recovered on the evening of Friday, 2 January 2026. Searches are still ongoing to locate Grace.

Both families continue to be supported by specially trained officers.

03/01/2026

After resuming shoreline searches in Withernsea for one missing person today, 3 January, HM Coastguard stood down its extensive search effort this afternoon. Please refer to police for further updates.

📸- HM Coastguard

03/01/2026

HM Coastguard searches in the Withernsea area have resumed this morning, 3 January.

Coastguard Rescue Teams from Hull, Withernsea, Hornsea and Bridlington alongside police were sent to the scene at around 6.30am to search for one missing person. Searches remain ongoing.

02/01/2026

Emergency services were called at around 3.10pm on Friday 2 January to reports of an incident off the coast of Withernsea.

HM Coastguard deployed a search and rescue helicopter and a fixed-wing aircraft, alongside Coastguard Rescue Teams from Withernsea, Hornsea, Hull & Bridlington. The RNLI’s Withernsea inshore lifeboat and Bridlington all-weather lifeboat along with the Hornsea Independent Lifeboat are assisting in the response, with the search currently ongoing.

Yorkshire Ambulance Service and an air ambulance have been sent to the scene, while Humberside Police and Humberside Fire and Rescue Service are also in attendance.

28/12/2025

What an incredible year it’s been! 🚨🌊

A huge thank you to everyone who has supported us in the vital work we do! Without our volunteers and SAR partners it wouldn’t be possible!

Here’s to doing it all again next year, stay safe out there! 😍

29/07/2025

Our teams and the wider SAR family are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Edie. Though she was rescued from the water, she tragically lost her fight in hospital. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with her family and friends during this incredibly difficult time. We are holding them close in our hearts. 💛

A teenage girl has sadly died after getting into difficulty in the sea in Whitley Bay.

Shortly before 5pm on Thursday, we received a report of concern for the welfare of a teenage girl who had come into difficulty in the water near Whitley Bay beach.

Emergency services attended, and 13-year-old Edie Smart, from the Monkseaton area, was rescued from the water.

She was taken to hospital where, despite the efforts of medical staff – she tragically passed away today.