In recent months, Belgian coastal authorities have observed an increase in attempted crossings involving small boats, with individuals seeking to reach the United Kingdom via the North Sea. Against this background, head lifeguards and rescue team coordinators are receiving information sessions organised ahead of the opening of the summer season, which traditionally begins on 1 May.

The briefings focus on operational procedures in case of sightings of boats at sea or the discovery of abandoned equipment such as inflatable vessels or life jackets in dunes or coastal areas. While coastal lifeguards do not have law enforcement powers, they are instructed on how to respond to situations involving persons in distress and how to alert the appropriate authorities, including the police.

The initiative also aims to ensure consistent coordination across coastal rescue services. Information provided to team leaders is being disseminated to all lifeguards in order to ensure that roles and reporting channels are clearly understood at the start of the season. According to the Intermunicipal Coastal Rescue Service of West Flanders (IKWV), the objective is to support timely reporting of suspicious circumstances and contribute to overall situational awareness along the coast.

For further details, please read this press release in Dutch or this one in French.