The RNLI is urging anyone using the coast for daily exercise during lockdown to stay safe and not take unnecessary risks.

The lifeboat charity has issued advice amidst concerns about any additional pressures being placed on volunteer RNLI crews operating from Ramsey, Peel, Port St Mary, Douglas and Port Erin.

Manx RNLI volunteers will still be on call 24 hours a day throughout the lockdown period, ready to drop everything to save lives at sea. Every time a lifeboat crew is called to an incident, it puts additional pressure on RNLI volunteers and other front-line emergency services.

In addition to this it also potentially exposes them to Covid-19.

While people are allowed to exercise, the RNLI says it supports Isle of Man Government guidance asking people to avoid exercise or activities that may put people in danger, as it may put additional pressure on emergency and health services.

RNLI water safety lead for the Isle of Man Chris Cousens said:

’Whether you are walking, running or cycling at the coast, or doing some activity on or in the water, please be extra responsible and avoid taking unnecessary risks.

’We’re urging everyone to follow our advice and stay safe. In particular at this time of year, we ask people to stay well back from stormy, wintery seas and cliff edges, check tide times before you go, take a phone with you, and call 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard if you or someone else is in trouble.’

The RNLI and coastguard last month launched a winter coastal safety campaign to highlight the dangers of stormy seas, changing tides and cliffs at this time of year.

The RNLI’s key water safety advice is:

Take care if walking near cliffs - know your route and keep dogs on a lead

Check tide times daily

Take a fully charged phone

If going afloat, always wear a life jacket or other personal flotation device and take a means of calling for help

Check your equipment is in good working order

Be aware of the conditions and your capabilities and only enter the water if it is safe to do so

In an emergency call 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard

Additional safety advice at www.rnli.org/safety