RNLI issues safety advice as Storm Chandra brings dangerous coastal conditions to south west
Areas along the south coast including parts of Cornwall and Devon are under amber warnings
The RNLI is urging people in the south west to be cautious of dangerous coastal conditions as Storm Chandra brings wet and windy weather to the region.
The Met Office has issued yellow weather warnings for rain in the south west, with areas along the south coast including parts of Cornwall and Devon under amber warnings.
Strong winds are also expected around exposed coastal locations.
The charity is urging people to avoid taking unnecessary risks near cliffs and water.
Joel Ninnes, RNLI Water Safety Manager, said:
"Sadly the south west has been hit by a succession of storms already this month, and we are bracing ourselves for the impact of Storm Chandra.
"With the ground already sodden, cliff edges are unstable and coastal structures already undermined by recent strong winds and rough seas.
"Our advice is to keep well away from cliff edges and sea fronts.
"Recent rainfall means rivers are flowing at a much higher rate and has left river banks especially slippery and eroded in places. Extra care should be taken near them.
"If you do plan to visit the coast or a waterside location, we urge you stay a safe distance from the water as conditions could knock you off your feet or wash you into the sea and keep a safe distance from wet and slippery edges, let someone know where you are going and carry a means of calling for help.
"If you find yourself in trouble in the water, remember to Float to Live: lie back in the water with your head so far back that your ears are submerged, extend your arms and legs and try to relax as best as you can until you get control of your breathing .
"If you see someone else in danger in the water, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.
"If you have something that floats that they can hold on to, throw it to them. Don’t go in the water yourself – you could end up in difficulty too."