Emergency services from across West Cumbria came together to take part in an exercise this week.
Organised by the Coastguard, it was an opportunity for the service to showcase its capabilities and promote collaboration.
The Coastguard operates rescue teams along the coast, who are called out for emergencies. The majority of members are volunteers, similar to mountain rescue teams, the RNLI and independent lifeboats.
Taking part in the operation this week in Whitehaven were Whitehaven and Maryport Coastguard rescue teams, Lake District Search And Mountain Rescue Association, Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team, Cockermouth Mountain Rescue Team, Maryport Rescue, West Cumbria Search and Rescue, Silloth RNLI, the Great North Air Ambulance Service, Cumbria police, Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service and North West Ambulance Service NHS Trust.
Steve Hart, senior coastal operations officer for the Coastguard, said: “The objective of this exercise was to provide an opportunity for partner emergency service agencies to gain insight into the capabilities of the Coastguard.
“Its aim was to foster collaboration, improve communication and promote a better understanding of the resources and expertise we have available.
“This exercise has hopefully helped establish stronger working relationships and enhanced preparedness for future joint emergency response efforts.”
Nathan Major, station officer for Whitehaven Coastguard Rescue Team, added: “In their time of need, the residents of Cumbria, along with tourists, are fortunate to benefit from having a variety of professional rescue services available.
“Regardless of what uniform we wear, we are all connected with one common goal – to strive to do our best to help the public in their time of need.
“That’s why collaborative working and events of this nature are vitally important to ensure we remain connected and look to improve our operational responses to search and rescue.”
