INTENT on helping people keep safe at sea, the Royal National Lifeboat Institution is today sending out a call for people to follow some important advice.

INTENT on helping people keep safe at sea, the Royal National Lifeboat Institution is today sending out a call for people to follow some important advice.

The RNLI want to help people going to sea to be better prepared to increase their safety as volunteer sea safety officers provide free, confidential advice to all those who turn out on the waters.

To assist in getting the safety message across, they carry out safety equipment advisory (SEA) checks. They also give talks and demonstrations on subjects such as the correct use and maintenance of lifejackets and the safe use of flares.

A lifejacket clinic will be held at the Lowestoft Haven Marina boat jumble on May 17.

Lowestoft sea safety officer, Paul Gray, said: 'Although probably best known for running the lifeboat service the RNLI is also dedicated to saving lives at sea by spreading the word on sea safety.

'I have sailed to many places including the Azores and Mediterranean and know how important it is to have the right boat and equipment. This is something my 25 years as a volunteer coastguard has really brought home to me.

'We give on-board advice about appropriate safety equipment and its use. This is a good way to ensure that the boat and equipment is suitable when it comes to staying safe on the water.'

More advice about sea safety and details about the RNLI's MOB Guardian alert system, which operates automatically when a fishing boat sinks, or crew fall in the water, will be published soon in The Journal.

'Sea safety officers are here to help those using the sea for business or pleasure, so I suggest people take advantage of our expertise and give us a call,' Mr Gray added.

For SEA checks call 0800 328 0600 or e-mail paulgray20@hotmail.com for SEA checks, talks and flare demonstrations.