RNLI urge people to be careful at coastal hotspots

East Lothian Council has already warned potential visitors to stay out of the county over the Easter weekend.

Now, RNLI in Scotland are urging people to take extra care if they visit the coast.

Last summer, the RNLI saw an increase to shouts as Scots visited picturesque coastal areas.

Changes to Scottish Government guidance has led the lifesaving charity to call for people to stay safe.

Dunbar RNLI are urging people to think about the dangers before visiting the coast. Picture: Nick Mailer

Speaking on behalf of Dunbar Lifeboat Station, coxswain Gary Fairbairn reminded people that water temperatures remained dangerously cold.

He said: “We understand that many people will have been missing trips to the coast and will be eager for a change of scene or activity.

“However, we are really asking the public for their help.

“Our team of dedicated volunteers have remained on call throughout the pandemic but, in order to attend a shout, we must break physical distancing instructions, putting ourselves and our families at risk.

“We also cannot be everywhere at once, if we see a sudden increase in people visiting local beaches like Belhaven Bay and Pease Bay our volunteer run service could struggle to meet demand.

“Therefore, we are asking people to stay aware of the inherent risks.”

READ MORE: East Lothian warns tourist to stay away over Easter

The RNLI message comes just days after East Lothian Council announced they had formed a working group involving its officers and police.

That will see coastal car parks monitored, as well as a crackdown on illegal and unsafe parking and checking where people have travelled from.