HM Coastguard Portling Search and Rescue

28/05/2026

25/05/2026

Mud can trap you faster than you think.

If you get stuck or get into trouble along the coast, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

24/05/2026

It's bank holiday weekend! 😀

Weather is looking good - especially into next week as Barra Best is reporting (blame him if it doesn't happen!)

We want people to enjoy our coastlines but please do take care - even if the air is warm the water is still very very cold 🥶

We are urging beachgoers to enjoy the nice weather safely and responsibly by following these key tips:

• Choose a lifeguarded beach and check the local signs ⚠️
• Have a chat to the lifeguards, ask about any specific risks there may be.
• Supervise children at all times and arrange a meeting point if you get separated 🧒
• Leave swimming pool inflatables at home - they are not suitable for the sea

For further information and more safety tips visit our website here: https://hmcoastguard.uk/on-the-beach

In an emergency, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard 📱

04/05/2026

07/04/2026

HM Coastguard is ready for a busy summer 🚁

15 minutes is all it takes for AW189 helicopter crews to be airborne from the newly launched seasonal base at Carlisle Lake District Airport. This follows the successful launch of the seasonal base at Oban Airport earlier in March.

Operating from now until September, the bases add modern facilities and two additional search and rescue helicopters, helping crews respond faster in areas of highest demand. These peak demand areas have been identified based on search and rescue data, especially linked to outdoor leisure activity.

Chief Coastguard Paddy O’Callaghan said: “HM Coastguard is a modern frontline emergency service that continues to be equipped and ready to respond when it’s needed the most.

He added: “We’d encourage people to enjoy the summer safely, including when they are visiting the coast. However, experience tells us that things can sometimes go wrong. That’s why we urge the public to remain alert to coastal hazards like tidal cutoffs, cliff falls, and mud.

“If you or others are in trouble at sea or on the coast, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”

04/04/2026

06/02/2026

Some coastal areas around the UK are set to experience rough and stormy conditions today, with strong powerful waves in the most exposed areas.

Crashing waves can easily knock you off your feet and sweep you out to sea, and cold water shock can leave you helpless in seconds. Stay safe with these tips:

- Check the weather and tide times before heading out ⛈️

- Share your plans with someone so they know when to expect you back 🗣️

- Carry a means of calling for help 📱

- If you enter the water unexpectedly, Float to Live 🌊

If you see someone in trouble, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

30/01/2026

21/12/2025

THE DARKEST OF DAYS – REMEMBERING THE LOCKERBIE AIR DISASTER

Although December 21st 2025 is the shortest day of the year, for many it is their longest, as it will be a day filled with thought and sadness and memories of loved ones lost.

It is now 37 years since an act of terrorism caused the murder of 270 people at the busy wee Scottish town of Lockerbie here in the heart of Dumfries and Galloway, which changed the world we live in forever.

243 passengers and 16 crew on board ‘Pan Am Flight 103 ( Maid of the Seas )’ died when a bomb exploded and caused the aircraft to crash in and around the surrounding area of Lockerbie, killing 11 more people on the ground.

The folk of Dumfries and Galloway, and throughout the world, will remember the saddest of days that they can never forget from back in 1988.

Today our thoughts, prayers and respect go to those that died on that day, their families and loved ones all over the world. The residents of Lockerbie, and the brave men and women from the rescue services and all the volunteers that spent months searching and clearing the area afterwards!

(Image Credit - DGWGO)