Beware coastal erosion danger!
| August 8, 2012 | Filled under East Riding of Yorkshire Council, Environment |
EAST RIDING COUNCIL is warning visitors to the east coast to take care on beaches and cliff tops following recent erosion losses in Mappleton and landslips in the south of England.
Although there have been no reports of injury or near-miss incidents this year, the council is reminding visitors that the natural beauty of the area does hide some natural phenomena which need to be treated with a degree of caution.
Large sections of the East Riding’s 85-kilometre coastline are affected by coastal erosion due to natural processes. Cliff losses linked to coastal erosion can occur at any time of the year and both visitors and residents are advised to take care on the beaches and cliff tops, by following the safety tips below:
When on the beach:
- Do not walk at the foot of cliffs as they are unstable. Never choose the base of the cliffs as a spot for sunbathing or picnicking.
Click to download ‘Explore the East Riding Coast’
- Do not attempt to climb the cliffs.
- Beware of falling rocks and debris from the cliff top.
- Never touch or take away objects that have been revealed as the result of an erosion incident. To report suspicious items or coastal problems/incidents, dial 999 and ask for the coastguard, giving the location of the issue. This will assist in ensuring a prompt and accurate response from the emergency services.
- Avoid any structures or debris, including the remnants of historic military infrastructure.
When on the cliff top:
- Treat all cliffs as dangerous. Children and pets should be supervised and kept under control at all times.
- Do not throw any items off the cliff top onto the beach.
- Do not try to access the beach from the cliff top (other than from a signed and designated beach access point).
- Keep away from all cliff edges as they may be dangerously undercut by erosion. Take note of any signs or barriers restricting access or warning of danger.
- Do not climb down cliffs as they are unstable and can crumble without warning.
Councillor Jane Evison, portfolio holder for economic development, tourism and rural issues, said: “People who live locally are aware of the problem but that will not be the case with visitors who don’t know the area. The council has to manage coastal erosion and we must make people aware that cliffs can become dangerous.
Although the recent events that have happened elsewhere are rare, it is timely to warn people of potential dangers. By following the advice, visitors can enjoy a relaxing and safe experience on the spectacular East Riding coastline.”
General beach and seaside information, including further safety advice and the locations of beach access points, can be found in the council’s ‘Explore the East Riding Coast’ booklet available from Tourist Information Centres and from the the council website.
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