A day with the Poole coastguard
Not just a rescue service
This does not mean simply rescuing people, but also involves delicate liaising between the numerous agencies and organisations with claims to the inshore waters and beaches of the south coast.
“My main challenge is getting home for dinner.”
And before he even has a chance to tuck into his bacon sandwich breakfast and check his emails, he’s already dealing with the day’s first visitors.
Volunteers from the Maritime Volunteer Service have come to speak to the Poole coastguard about arrangements for a Red Arrows display above Bournemouth beach in August.
A strip of the sea must be kept clear of boats so that a plane could ditch into the water in an emergency, and the MVS has offered to help patrol the area.
Pip’s job is to make sure there are enough people and boats to ensure the safety of everyone involved in the display, from the spectators on the land and in boats, to the pilots themselves.
