New coastal safety design for fire engine

The four large panels on the engine are to make people more aware of dangers along the coast

A new design for a fire engine has been unveiled to urge people to be careful along the coast.

Fire crews have already had more than seven rescues in the in and around the Weston-super-Mare area this summer using the service's hovercraft, service bosses said.

The design on the engines includes large panels of pictures of the coast with warnings and advice.

Avon Fire & Rescue Service (AF&RS) said it was the third in the series of water safety-themed designs.

The panels feature local scenes

The water safety points on the pictures urge people to call 999 if they see someone in trouble, but not to enter the water or mud themselves.

They also include advice to check tide times, but also say "don't muddy the memories" and "make only happy memories at the seaside".

Weston’s White Watch fire service said: “We’re so pleased to see a new design on our truck, particularly one that represents our iconic coastline and raises awareness of the dangers.”

They added: “Always remember that if someone gets into difficulty at the coast, call 999 and ask for the coastguard.

"We’re here to help you alongside our emergency services colleagues, but please take care and make good memories at the beach.”