Family Found Pitching Tent Dangerously Close to 280ft Cliff Edge
Coastguard teams from Staithes and Whitby sprang into action after discovering a family of two adults and a child camping perilously close to a 280ft cliff drop. The family appeared unaware of the life-threatening risks posed by their spot.
Police Called Over Possible Breach of COVID-19 Rules
North Yorkshire Police also attended, investigating a potential violation of current COVID-19 restrictions amid the incident.
Coastguard Warns of Deadly Coastal Dangers
Adam Turner, Senior Coastal Operations Officer for HM Coastguard, issued a stark warning: “The family were in an extremely perilous position with no idea of the extreme danger they were in. Cliff edges are really unstable and can easily collapse as recent landslips in the area have shown.”
He urged the public to take safety seriously: “If you live near the coast and are in a position to take exercise there in line with current COVID-19 restrictions, please take care near cliffs. Keep to paths and stay well back from the cliff edge.”
Turner added essential safety tips: “Check the weather and tides before you head out, wear appropriate sturdy footwear and take a fully charged mobile phone, so if the worst should happen you can call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”
