People living in coastal communities across Tayside are being asked if they want to make a difference and become Coastguard Rescue Officers.
Her Majesty’s Coastguard is the emergency service responsible for coordinating maritime search and rescue in the UK. One rescue resource often called into action at any time, day or night, is the Coastguard Rescue Teams. There are 347 of these teams in the UK, made up of more than 3,200 volunteers.
The Arbroath, Montrose, Stonehaven and Carnoustie teams are currently looking for new recruits. So far this year, the teams have collectively been involved in almost 200 incidents, ranging from capsized boats, cliff fallers to missing anglers and people cut off by the tide.
Coastguard Area Commander Ross Greenhill said:
“Coastal communities are privileged to have these rescue teams which form an integral part of society. They respond to callouts in all weathers and often at unsocial hours to assist people in distress.
“Coastguard Rescue Officers are trained in first aid and a variety of rescue techniques, from water, mud, rope and cliff rescues, to search methods and assisting helicopter operations.
“Aside from giving your time to a worthy cause, volunteering has a number of key benefits for your career too. It can help you stand out from the crowd, learn practical skills, and will look great on your CV.
“If you’d like to join, we’ll ensure you have regular training, and all we ask in return is that you are situated within 20 minutes of the Coastguard base, and be available to respond at most times.”
But it’s not just rescues that the teams get involved with. Coastguard Rescue Officers also spend time visiting schools, clubs and other public places to help people stay safe at sea and along the coast.
Susan Simpson, from the Arbroath Coastguard Rescue Team, said:
“I am immensely proud to be a Coastguard Rescue Officer and during my 2 years in the service I have grown in confidence, not only for the job at hand but I have become a far more confident person in my private life too.
“My family and friends are also very proud of what I do and my daughter loves to tell anyone who will listen that ‘mummy helps people in danger’ which again fills me with pride.
“If you have ever thought about it, my advice is just do it. I am very passionate about what I do and being part of such a vital service to the community is a reward like no other.”
