RNLI issues plea after distress flares discharged from shoreline on Beauly Firth

A Highland lifeboat station has issued a reminder not to discharge flares unless there is emergency.

Volunteers at RNLI Kessock were called out along with other emergency services last night following reports of two red distress flares sighted over the Beauly Firth.

The incident happened at 7.45pm.

After a lifeboat with a crew of four carried out a search of the area, it was confirmed the flares had been discharged from the shoreline and no one was in immediate danger. No further assistance was required.

In a statement issued via social media, RNLI Kessock said: "We’d like to remind everyone never to discharge a distress flare unless you are in need of immediate assistance.

"Tonight’s shout involved eight lifeboat volunteers with a further four on standby at the station, several coastguard search and rescue members and representatives from Police Scotland.

"We will always attend when requested to launch by the Coastguard.

"As always, if you are in danger or see anyone in danger near the water, please call 999 and ask for the coastguard."

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