The coastguard have issued out a warning to stay safe as the weather is starting to bring more people out towards the coast.

A spokesman for the South Woodham Coastguard Rescue Team said: “During, and approaching the summer months we often push safety messages for those visiting the coast.

“It was always drummed into me as a child that if I see a crime I should call the police, if I’m hurt I should call an Ambulance.

“Yet no-one ever told me that if I’m injured on the beach or coastal path, if I become stuck in mud, or if my dog gets trapped on a cliff face, that I should dial 999 and ask for the coastguard.

“It’s up to all of us as a community to help educate not only our children, but also our families, friends and loved ones.

“We must be vigilant, and help bridge the gap between the fisherman who uses the Coastguard as a lifeline, to those families and people on holiday on the water, or just visiting the coast who might have no idea who to call in a coastal emergency.”

The team are primarily responsible for the coastline covering 80 miles from the River Crouch in Battlesbridge to the River Blackwater in Goldhanger.

For more information, visit their Facebook page or follow them on Twitter at @SWF_Coastguard.