Jet ski riders told: Respect the rules or face action

The holiday season is in full swing in the Bay as children break up for school holidays and thousands of families head for the water and local beaches.

It is also an opportune moment for a sea safety warning from the local coastguards.

Brixham's coastguard rescue team has put out an appeal specially aimed at the owners of personal watercraft, including popular jet skis.

They have asked the motorised recreational craft to act responsibly and be mindful of others at the coast.

They say: "Collisions and falling into the water at speed can cause serious injury."

They have appealed: "Protect yourself and others."

They have urged:

• Keep to the speed limits

• Stay out of safe swim areas

• Use the appropriate boat lanes

They have warned that they have the power to take action if regulations are flouted and warnings are ignored.

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency, as well as the police and other agencies, has powers to detain watercraft if they are being used dangerously or if they are considered unsafe and can seek prosecution for breaches of safety regulations.

The coastguard's team adds: "If someone is acting dangerously and putting lives at risk, immediately call 999 and ask for the coastguard. For non-urgent situations, contact the MCA's Regulatory, Compliance, and Investigations Team or call the police on 101."