Devon and Cornwall Police are working with Surf Life Saving GB to train officers in rescue techniques which could save lives this summer.
Every year millions of visitors enjoy the beautiful coast of Devon and Cornwall, not to mention the residents who already live within easy reach of the most stunning scenery in the UK. In total, Devon and Cornwall boast a whopping 1200 miles of beaches, cliffs, coves, harbours and river estuaries. No matter where you are, you’re never more than 25 miles from the sea.
The coast is a fantastic place to spend time, but as anyone who lives nearby will tell you, the sea and coast can be dangerous and should always be treated with respect.
Acting Chief Inspector Simeon Bayliss, Operations Training Manager for Devon and Cornwall Police said:
“We cover the longest coastline of any police force in England or Wales, and that brings special challenges.
Although we are not specialists in water rescue, like the RNLI, Coastguard or Surf Life Saving GB, our officers are often the first on the scene when an incident happens, and they need to be equipped and trained to help people safely, as well as providing assistance to other agencies.
We already include some aspects of Land Based Rescue in our current training, but we wanted to work with experts to develop enhanced training that will benefit everyone.
This is why we’re working with Surf Life Saving GB to deliver a pilot Land Based Rescue training programme. With our geography and visitor numbers, it makes sense for us to be the first force in the country to roll out this programme to our officers.”
Adrian Mayhew, Director of National Operations & Safety for Surf Life Saving GB said:
“Sadly, many people who enter the water to help someone in distress end up becoming victims themselves.
Even on a blisteringly hot summer’s day, the water around our coast can be very cold and cause your body to go into shock, even if you’re a strong swimmer. If you fall in, the most important thing is not to panic – simply roll onto your back and float.
The safest option is remembering 3 words so both Police and public can act. They are Call, Tell, Throw!
Call 999
Tell the victim to lie on their back “float to live!” – make a star fish, head back and ears in the water and gentle sculling if needed
Throw a rescue line
We’re very pleased to help Devon & Cornwall Police improve their officer training. The more people who understand the principles of safe land based rescue, the better.”
Land Based Rescue is just part of the training that Devon and Cornwall officers undertake to protect the public and themselves. It includes enhanced public and police safety training and improved first-aid training. The latter was developed from the lessons learnt after the Manchester Arena inquiry as part of the continuous operational learning that policing undergoes. These improvements will help us to deliver a higher standard of service to our communities.
