The RNLI Brighton lifeboat launched yesterday (Friday 27 August) just before 9.20pm after several 999 reports that a red distress flare had been fired close to the entrance to Brighton Marina.
The volunteer crew – as well as members of Newhaven and Shoreham coastguard teams – found no one in distress in the area.
The RNLI said: “It was established that flares had been fired from the shore and any persons had left the area.”
Lifeboat operations manager Roger Cohen said: “At least 12 volunteers had their Friday night disrupted due to this reckless act.
“Flares are a means of calling for help at sea and there will always be a response to reports.”
The crew returned to the Marina lifeboat station at 10.30pm.
The RNLI added: “It is important to remember marine distress flares are not fireworks and if used incorrectly can be extremely dangerous.
“If you see a red flare along the coast, or at sea, you should always dial 999 and ask for the coastguard.”
So reckless that folk do things like this. We should respect folk that give up their time to protect people enjoying the amazing water around our land.