coastguard

Everyday

1. The coastguard is the organisation that watches the sea near a coast and rescues people and boats in danger. tree →
2. A coastguard is a person who works for it. tree →

In the lessons

In safety lessons: if someone is in trouble at sea or on cliffs, call the emergency number (999 or 112 in the UK and Ireland, 911 in the US and Canada, 000 in Australia, 111 in New Zealand) and ask for the coastguard. In stories it tells the reader help is coming. Phrases: «call the coastguard», «coastguard helicopter», «coastguard station».

Examples

• The coastguard rescued two kayakers caught by the tide. tree →
• If you see someone in trouble at sea, call for the coastguard. tree →
• A coastguard helicopter flew over the beach. tree →
• My uncle is a coastguard and watches for ships in danger. tree →
• The coastguard warned people to keep away from the cliff edge. tree →
• The boat radioed the coastguard for help. tree →

Note

In the US it is «the Coast Guard» (two words, a military service); in the UK and Ireland «the Coastguard» or «coastguard». Lifeguards watch swimmers on beaches; the coastguard deals with the wider sea and coast.