New documentary Coastguard: Every Second Counts
July 2, 2023Coastguard: The Importance of Every Second is a groundbreaking documentary series that provides viewers with an exclusive look behind the scenes of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA).
The series, which starts airing on Sunday 2 July at 9pm on Channel 5, offers a comprehensive view of the MCA’s wide-ranging work. From safety inspections of vessels to high-stakes rescues by HM Coastguard, viewers will witness the agency’s unwavering commitment to safety.
For the first time ever, the MCA has granted unprecedented access to TV crews for a year. This access allows the documentary to highlight the diverse and often tragic work of the UK’s maritime regulator.
The series brings dramatic rescue stories from across the UK to life, with footage captured from the air and interviews with helicopter crews who witnessed the events unfold. The documentary also captures the action at the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre in Fareham, Hampshire, providing a glimpse into the crucial work performed by coastguards during rescues. First-hand recollections put viewers right in the middle of the action, showcasing the expertise of the teams.
Throughout the series, viewers will be introduced to the members of the Regulatory Compliance Investigations Team (RCIT) responsible for investigating and prosecuting unsafe practices at sea. The documentary follows these team members on their day-to-day tasks, which include investigating and bringing individuals and companies who violate maritime laws to trial. The MCA has the authority to directly prosecute offenders. The first episode begins with the tragic consequences of disregarding these strict safety regulations, resulting in the loss of a crew member’s life.
The programme also showcases the team’s safety checks, using imagery from fixed-wing aircraft to ensure vessels are operating safely in British waters.
Viewers will also get an inside look at the work of the Counter Pollution and Salvage team, who collaborate with various agencies to identify, coordinate, and respond to maritime environmental concerns. The documentary features the fixed-wing aircraft monitoring the seas for any signs of pollution.
Sea pollution can cause significant damage to delicate marine ecosystems, and the MCA team works diligently to mitigate the impact.
Virginia McVea, Chief Executive of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, stated, “The MCA’s primary mission is to save lives. Every member of our team is dedicated to this goal each day in every corner of the UK. It’s a special responsibility.
“This documentary provides an excellent opportunity to remind the public about coastal safety and reassure everyone in the UK that when they call us, we will respond.”
