TEAM PREPARED FOR BEAST FROM THE EAST
The Ardrossan Coastguard Rescue Team is bracing itself for severe winter weather as Scotland prepares for the 'beast from the east' over the coming days.
Coastguard Rescue Teams remain on call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to respond to those in need and are also able to provide 4x4 capability and specialist support to partner emergency services during times of severe weather.
The team's state of the art 4x4 emergency response vehicle is packed and ready along with a wide range of additional support equipment including portable generators and emergency lighting.
More than 100 schools have been closed on Wednesday in anticipation of heavy snow showers and freezing conditions. The country has already experienced major snowfall and blizzard conditions on Tuesday as a yellow weather warning was issued by the Met Office.
This warning is to be upgraded to amber - the Met's second highest weather alert - from 6am on Wednesday until 6pm on Thursday, affecting most of Scotland.
Many Scottish councils currently say they currently intend to keep schools open but advise parents and pupils to keep up to date with the latest developments via their websites or social media.
The advice is to plan ahead and to stay up to date with the latest weather forecasts issued by the Met Office.
If you are venturing out near the coast please follow some simple steps to help keep yourself and others safe:
• Ensure you are dressed appropriately for the conditions, including suitable footwear.
• Make sure your mobile phone is fully charged before heading out.
• If driving ensure you have
• Remember the stated temperature on the weather forecast doesn’t take into account the wind chill factor. Temperatures, taking into account wind will be significantly lower.
• Weather conditions can change quickly and with little warning at the coast - always check the forecast before leaving and monitor conditionswhilst out.
• Be aware that freezing conditions can make coastal paths treacherous with ice and snow, increasing the slip risk.
• Water temperatures are very low at this time of year and cold water shock strikes quickly. Air temperatures are even lower so, even once out of the water, hypothermia can set in very quickly.
• If you are taking part in water based activities, check the conditions and forecast before setting out.
• Always let somebody know where you are planning going and what time you should return.
Search and Rescue - it's what we do.
In a coastal, beach or cliff emergency dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.