People are urged to be careful on the coast and by rivers over the coming days and weeks.
Whitehaven Coastguard has issued advice for people planning to visit the coast or rivers over the summer holidays.
It said it expects more visitors than usual to Cumbria’s coastal areas and the Lakes.
A spokesman said: “There have been a variety of coastal and inland water incidents throughout Cumbria over the past week alone, some with very tragic and sad news.
“Our thoughts are very much with the families and the rescue personnel involved in each of these.
“With people staycationing, we expect the coast will see a larger than normal number of visitors over the coming weeks, some possibly visiting and choosing to stay in the many coastal holiday parks and accommodation along the Cumbrian coast.
“Over this holiday period, in addition to HM Coastguard search, mud, water and rope rescues, we tend to receive call outs for inflatables with children onboard drifting out to sea, as well as reports of tombstoning from piers.
“We would urge the public to be mindful of the risks and to call 999 for the Coastguard if they do see anyone in difficulty.”
It has issued the following advice:
Inflatables
Inflatables are not safe for open water.
Whitehaven Coastguard would strongly urge parents not to take inflatables to the beach for their children to use in the water.
The spokesman added: “All it takes is for the inflatable to be caught by a light breeze or tidal current and suddenly it is pulled out to sea, often with the children onboard not wearing any form of lifejacket or buoyancy aid.”
Tombstoning
Tombstoning from piers, cliffs, rocks or other structures into the sea is dangerous.
The depth of the water can dramatically change with the tide, and what was a deep pool at lunchtime might be a shallow puddle by teatime.
You don’t know what hazards may be lurking under the surface until you are hurt or worse.
The shock of cold water may make it difficult to swim to safety and strong currents can quickly sweep you away.
If you do get into difficulty in the water, remember float to live.
In a coastal, sea or cliff emergency, always dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard
