Summer holidays and the perils of being by the sea
July 17, 2023The summer of 2022 marked a milestone in British summer holiday weather. For the first time in its history, the Met Office recorded a temperature high of more than 40 degrees Centigrade in a period of extreme heat that was more widespread – not to mention more intense – than during previous heatwaves. In June this year the Met Office once again revealed that some parts of the UK were in a heatwave.
For most of us, the only sense of relief from such hot weather comes from being beside the sea. And if you’re a business owner with premises anywhere near the coast you could be looking at bumper earnings this time of the year.
This article looks at what both individuals and businesses need to remember while being by the sea …
A cooling dip – but beware the power of nature
Though a shimmering sea on a hot summer’s day beckons anyone for a cooling dip, you must always be wary of the powerful natural force of the sea.
The UK coastline has strong tides, ripcurrents, and powerful waves that can pose a threat to even the strongest swimmers. It’s crucial to respect the ocean’s power and never underestimate its ability to change in an instant.
Swim only in designated areas where there are lifeguards present, and always stick to safety guidelines and warnings to avoid putting yourself – and your family and friends – in harm’s way.
If there has been rain in the previous 48 hours, it may be advisable not to swim in the sea due to the rain bringing bacteria and other pathogens into the surf.
Beside the sea, you will often encounter further natural perils along coastal cliffs where outcrops of rock can make the way treacherous and where venturing too close to the edge can result in nasty falls. You’ll need to explore these areas with all due caution, staying on the designated paths to stay safe.
Manmade perils
It’s not just the power of nature you’ll need to watch out for – sadly, many of the waters off some of our finest beaches are polluted with harmful effluent.
Inappropriate or improper waste disposal, littering, and the release of chemicals into the water can all contribute to pollution, posing risks to both human health and marine life.
Do our precious coastal environments a favour and avoid adding your own pollution to the delicate ecosystem that struggles to survive there.
Dangers and perils at sea
While there is a need to be careful and treat your visits to the coast with respect, the beaches and the sea are there to be enjoyed – taking the necessary precautions and fully aware of the risks.
Those perils can be heightened in places where the sea also makes way for a whole range of exciting water sports – including jet skis, motor boats, and other craft. They can provide hours of fun, of course, but accidents involving these types of vessels, unfortunately, hit the news headlines every summer in the UK.
Businesses and regulation
Recognising the potential dangers, the government has introduced legislation – which came into effect on the 31st of March 2023 – placing greater responsibility on the users, owners, and operators, of powered watercraft (including jet skis). If anyone is seriously injured or dies after being involved in an accident with such a watercraft, the owner, operator, or user can be prosecuted and may be fined or even sentenced to prison.
Apart from any criminal responsibility, owners and operators of water may still bear civil liability for any physical injury caused to others or damage to their property.
For that reason, if you own or operate such a craft, you might want to ensure you have sufficient public liability insurance to meet any civil claims alleging your negligence and responsibility for injuries or property damage – if you are found liable, you could be ordered to pay very substantial damages.
Any insurance you arrange for marine craft – including your jet skis – may also extend to cover for accidental damage to the vessels themselves.
Oh we do like to be beside the seaside
Being beside the sea is always fun – we hope these tips help keep you (and, if relevant) your business safe.