HM Coastguard has launched a new website to promote the service as one of the UK’s four emergency services, in response to a startling lack of awareness.

Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) research shows more than 50 per cent of UK citizens do not know to call 999 in the event of a coastal emergency – despite the phone service being launched more than 50 years ago. This is something the new HM Coastguard website addresses, with the slogan ‘Call 999 Coastguard’ signposted across the site.

The new website, designed and developed by digital agency Creode, features safety tips, resources, and vital information on HM Coastguard’s services.

Jasper Snaith, MCA’s digital communications manager, says: “The site will be a valuable safety asset to anyone living around or visiting the coast, whilst they’ll also find a wealth of information on the 200-year history and diverse range of teams and people that make up His Majesty’s Coastguard — one of the UK’s emergency services. They will also be able to read stories of our courageous coastguard rescue teams from across the country, who respond to 999 calls from those in trouble at the coast.”

Senior digital project manager at Creode, Olivia Lofts adds: “Whilst there was a clear remit to convey vital safety advice for anyone preparing to take a coastal trip, there was also a brief to create more awareness of HM Coastguard as one of the four emergency services. Not only that, we wanted to highlight the incredible work carried out by HM Coastguards, which we’ve done through telling real-life survival in the ‘Your Coastguard’ area of the site.”

With the new site, safety advice is brought together in one place for the first time, making it easier for visitors to prepare for their trip and stay safe. The site also features a section for potential recruits, whether volunteering or searching for a full-time career.

In 2022, HM Coastguard celebrated its 200th birthday. The Coastguard was formed in 1822 by the amalgamation of three services set up to prevent smuggling. Since then, it has been saving lives along the UK coast and at sea, as well as coordinating rescues for those in distress in international waters.

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