Drones used in search for 'multiple missing children' at Sussex beaches during heatwave
Sussex Police has urged people to stay safe over the bank holiday weekend, as a heatwave brings large crowds to beaches and beauty spots across the county.
The force said it had already seen ‘significantly increased numbers of people’, travelling to beaches and beauty spots ‘across our districts’, as temperatures continue to rise.
A social media post, on Saturday evening (May 23), read: “Today, officers dealt with multiple missing children, with drone officers deployed to assist with searches from the air. Thankfully, all incidents were resolved safely, but it highlights how quickly people can become separated in busy environments.
“We are expecting another busy period for emergency services over the weekend and would ask everyone to take simple precautions to help keep themselves and others safe.”
The force advised people to ‘stay hydrated and drink plenty of water’, whilst wearing sun protection.
It was also stressed that people must take extra care around open water, coastal areas and rivers – as ‘conditions can change quickly’.
Parents and carers were also urged to supervise children closely in crowded public areas and agree clear meeting points in case groups become separated.
Motorists have additionally been warned to expect heavy traffic on major routes and coastal roads throughout the weekend.
Police also reminded the public never to leave children or dogs inside parked vehicles, even for short periods, and encouraged anyone drinking alcohol to do so responsibly.
In the statement, the force added: “Our officers, staff and partners will continue working throughout the weekend to keep communities safe.”
Sussex Police concluded by urging residents and visitors to ‘enjoy the weather responsibly, look after one another, and help us ensure everyone has a safe bank holiday weekend’.
Temperatures up to, and exceeding, 30 degrees Celsius have been forecast for Sussex in the coming days. The UK Government’s heat-health alert for Sussex over the bank holiday weekend has risen to ‘amber’.
The alert is in place from Friday, May 22, to Wednesday, May 27.
The risk description read: “Significant impacts are likely across health and social care services due to the high temperatures, including: a rise in deaths, particularly among those ages 65 and over or with health conditions. There may also be impacts on younger age groups.”