Hill Head Coastguard Rescue Team

Yesterday evening at 6:15 PM, our volunteer crew launched for what was supposed to be a routine training exercise. Plans quickly changed when they were immediately diverted by the Coastguard to a 26ft sailing vessel in distress.

The vessel’s engine had cut out, and its crew had called the Coastguard for help as they began to drift. Our crew found the vessel near No Man’s Fort and, spotting some water ingress, decided to tow them to safety at Haslar Marina, where they were met by Hillhead Coastguard Rescue Team.

Our crew got back to the station at 9.15pm, washed down the boat and made ready for the next launch. An unexpectedly busy crew night after all!

📟 Multi agency incident alongside Lymington Coastguard Rescue Team, RNLI Calshot Lifeboat, South Central Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service

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

Taking a dip in the sea on a hot day? ⛱️

Don’t be fooled, just because it’s sunny doesn’t mean the water is warm.

Entering cold water, whether deliberately or accidentally, can cause cold water shock.

When this happens, you may gasp involuntarily, followed by rapid breathing that can be very difficult to control. This can increase the risk of inhaling water and drowning.

Never jump straight in. Instead, enter the water slowly to help your body adjust, and avoid swimming alone. Wearing a wetsuit can also help by improving buoyancy and reducing the effects of cold water.

Don’t forget to have warm clothes ready for when you come back to shore.

In an emergency at the coast, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

The team have just returned from a mud rescue with our flank team Lymington Coastguard Rescue Team, making this message very relevant!

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.

Inflatables are great for the pool, but they’re not safe for the sea.

Even in light winds, they can quickly drift you out to sea and put you in danger.

If you’re heading to the beach this bank holiday, leave inflatables at home and save them for the pool instead.

In an emergency at the coast, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

Coastguard Officers from Hill Head were proud to help showcase the skills and expertise of HM Coastguard during this visit.

Tombstoning isn’t worth the risk 🚫

Jumping or diving from piers, cliffs, jetties, or bridges can cause serious injury or be fatal.

Submerged rocks, shallow water and strong currents aren’t always visible. Once you’re in the water, getting out can be difficult.

Instead, choose a registered coasteering provider, where you’ll have the right training and equipment for a safe, enjoyable experience ✅

In an emergency at the coast, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.