Stay Safe on the Dorset Coast

Dorset Coast Safety Messages

Stay safe on the Dorset Coast Dorset Beach Safety Information - Visit Dorset (visit-dorset.com)

Image by Sarah Middleton Photography www.sarahmiddletonphotography.com/

Walking

The Jurassic Coast is constantly eroding. This erosion has created the beautiful coastline that we see today, but it’s important to remember that rock falls and landslides are part of this process. Although they are more likely to occur after heavy rainfall or storms, rock falls and landslides can happen at any time.

• Do not take unnecessary risks and stay away from the edge of the cliff top.
• Stay away from the base of cliffs: rock falls can happen at any time.
• Do not climb or walk over landslide or rock fall debris, especially after wet weather.
• Sea walls and harbours are not often fenced. Take care not to fall from the edge.
• Always pay attention to warning signs; they are there to advise you on how to stay safe.

Swimming

• Check the weather forecast and tides before you go.
• Choose a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags.
• Beware of steep, shelving beaches and large waves.
• Call 999 in an emergency.
• Float to Live

RNLI Beach Safety – Top Five Tips To Stay Safe By The Sea

RNLI Open Water Swimming Safety Advice And Tips

BBQs and campfires  Dorset Heaths BBQs,

• No BBQs or fires. They can damage countryside, harm people and wildlife.
• Keep Dorset safe – bring a picnic and always take your rubbish home.
• Disposable BBQs and campfires are banned at high fire risk areas across Dorset – map of banned locations - Countryside - No BBQ (dorsetcouncil.gov.uk)
• Be safe – watch it cool it, bin it. Thank you for BBQing responsibly.

Paddling

• Check the weather forecast and tides before you go.
• Avoid paddling in an offshore wind.
• Ensure you wear the right leash when stand up paddleboarding.
• Wear a personal flotation device.
• Tell others of your plans.
• Carry a phone is a waterproof case.
• Call 999 in an emergency.

British Canoeing and the RNLI launch safety campaign for paddlers

Safety for Personal Watercrafts (Jet skis and small motorised boats) - Water safety information for PWCs

Support the SLOW Campaign

S – See who else is in the water

L – Look out for wildlife

O – Observe the sea conditions

W – Watch your speed

• Always wear a personal flotation device
• Have a means of calling for help
• Promote safe riding, get trained and ride responsibly
• Always wear a kill cord

In case of an emergency on the coast dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

Words by the Dorset Coast Forum www.dorsetcoast.com/