Summer safety message from MRI
TOURISM chiefs have backed calls for holidaymakers to take care on Scotland's beautiful coastline this summer, after Stonehaven-based lifesaving charity the Maritime Rescue Institute launched its seasonal awareness drive.
The Maritime Rescue Institute and VisitScotland have joined forces to urge people coming to the Kincardineshire coastline to make safety a priority.
The move comes as thousands of holidaymakers prepare to visit the area over the coming months to take advantage of the stunning – but potentially dangerous – coastline.
Ken Massie, VisitScotland's Regional Director said: "Kincardineshire has a beautiful coastline which is enjoyed by residents and visitors alike whether on day trips or longer stays.
"VisitScotland supports the Maritime Rescue Institute's call for everyone to act in a safe and responsible manner when visiting the many attractions along the coast near Stonehaven. By doing so a visit will be memorable for all the right reasons."
Ann Laing, Search And Rescue Manager and general manager of MRI, added: "Traditionally summer is a hugely busy time in the Stonehaven area, particularly if the weather is good, with many visitors, along with the local community, taking advantage of the beautiful coastline," she said.
"It's essential that people take a sensible approach when they are on or near the shores.
"Our crew members are fully committed to providing a search and rescue provision for the Kincardineshire coastline and this is underlined by the fact our service exists 365 days a year, regardless of conditions.
"We are hoping for a record breaking year in terms of visitors to the area and we also hope to record the fewest ever call outs for a season."
MRI spends a huge amount of time educating local schools on the dangers associated with the coastline and it is hoped that the charity's work in this area will go a long way to reducing the number of callouts it receives.
The MRI, which is supported by Shell U.K. Limited, provides 24 hour search and rescue (SAR) lifeboat response along the Kincardineshire coast from Findon to Gourdon and up to 50 nautical miles offshore.
L
ast year, crew members responded to a total of 18 call outs.
For more information about the MRI and its work, which relies on sponsorship and donations, log on to http://www.maritime-rescue-institute.org
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Weather for Stonehaven
Thursday 09 February 2012
Today
Light rain
Temperature: 3 C to 5 C
Wind Speed: 12 mph
Wind direction: South west
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Cloudy
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