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A coast guard is a national organization responsible for various services at sea, in the UK generally with search and rescue.
Popularity
for those with an interest in all things maritime-related and with a desire to be part of a well organised team of professional rescuers, the role of coastguard is extremely popular.
Location
Coastguards will through necessity require to be located close to a coastguard or lifeboat station.
Age
Generally people of ages 18 to 50, who are physically fit.
Ability
Potential candidates for Coastguard duties should be phtsically fit, have an interest in maritime affairs, have the potential to use computerised and communications equipment and be able to work under pressure especially during emergency situations.
Description
In the UK the coastguard is known as HM coastguard - it does not possess aircraft or lifeboats - although it often leases commercial helicopters and tugs to provide search and rescue cover in certain areas. It is simply a coordinating body and public face of the search and rescue services. To provide assistance to persons in danger the Coastguard may call on the RNLI or their own land-based rescue personnel or rescue helicopters to take part.
Dedication
Coastguard Watch Assistant is the route by which most people join the Coastguard. They provide vital support both in their administrative role and in the Operations Room. Their duties include receiving and handling 999 calls, monitoring equipment, updating logs, and providing information to the general public and general administration. Volunteers may join the Auxiliary Coastguard service and would be expected to carry out regular training.
Potential
HM Coastguard co-ordinates search and rescue through its network of 18 Maritime Rescue Co-ordination Centres and over 60 Sector Bases. From volunteer auxiliary, you can progrees to watch assistant, watch officer or sector manager.
Closely
Related Activities
search and rescue
Further
Reading
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency website is located at www.mcga.gov.uk
Level of Demand
The table below shows the maximum levels of demand that this activity requires. NOTE: These are not entry levels or levels of requirement and has nothing to do with ability.
Energy |
Arms
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Legs
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Sight
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Hearing
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Speech |
Learning |
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