Always tell someone where you're going and at what time you intend to be back. The sea and coastline is a dangerous environment not only with rough seas and tides but also quicksand, soft mud and fog. It is best never to fish alone.

Take your mobile phone with you in case of emergency and a first aid kit.

Be aware of tide timetables if it is likely that the area you are fishing could be cut off as the tide turns.

Check the weather forecast before you go and make sure your clothing is suitable for the conditions. Always wear footwear with good grip.

Make sure you've got enough food and drink to last you plus extra in case you become stranded or stuck in bad weather conditions and have to wait to be rescued. Also any other basic survival items such as a torch.

If you are fishing from your own boat, make sure you have plenty of spare fuel, food, water and a paddle onboard, that you have sufficient lifejackets for each person and that everyone knows how to use them and any other safety equipment before you leave.

If you are on a charter boat make sure you are happy that your skipper has taken all safety precautions necessary and that he/she has taught you how to use the boat's safety equipment in the event of an emergency.

Take the number of the local Coastguard Rescue Centre with you and have it to hand in case you get into difficulties. If in doubt you can always call 999. The local coastguard rescue centre numbers can be found by region at the following links...

Scotland and Northern Ireland coastguard rescue centres
East of England coastguard rescue centres
Wales and Western Region coastguard rescue centres