CLIFF RESCUE EXERCISE AT NEWHAVEN WEST BEACH

Coastguards and other emergency services have been putting their skills to the test today, as they took part in a major rescue exercise.

Coastguard Rescue Officers from Newhaven, Birling Gap and Eastbourne were involved in the rope rescue scenario alongside Sussex Police, East Sussex Fire Service, West Sussex Fire Service and South East Coast Ambulance Service.

The exercise took place on West Beach at Newhaven. Starting at midday, a simulated 999 call reported that a car with four people inside had gone over the cliff. Rescue teams were sent to the scene, set up their rope rescue equipment and worked together to free and bring the casualties to the cliff top.
Coastguard Rescue Officers on scene

Coastguard Graham Easton, organiser of today’s exercise, said:

“A search and rescue operation can often involve many different emergency services and agencies, who all have different roles and responsibilities when it comes to dealing with incidents.

“This exercise at Newhaven’s West Beach today was a great opportunity for us to work together to ensure we’re as ready as we can be should an incident like this occur.

“The Coastguard is a 24/7 emergency service, ready to respond at any time day or night to incidents on our coastline or out at sea. Remember, if you see someone in difficulty at the coast, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”

To ensure the scenario is authentic as possible, a car provided by East Sussex Fire Service was placed at the base of the cliffs at West Beach.

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