Coastguard are appealing to beach users to treat the waters around the Kent coast with respect as the Easter break approaches.

The number of incidents over the two-week school holiday around the Thanet coast alone is expected to match the total for the first quarter of the year.

Margate coastguard Pete Overton warned: “Don’t take stupid risks at sea. Conditions may be calm at the shore but just half a mile out to sea they can be treacherous.

“The forthcoming holidays often see people on dinghies and inflatables if the weather is warm - but while it may be sunny on land, the sea temperatures will still be extremely cold.

“Ten minutes in the sea at this time of year and a body will stop functioning properly, with little strength left in the arms and legs to swim. Forty minutes and the likelihood of survival is slim.

“The currents off our coast are very strong - the Thames Estuary, the English Channel and the North Sea converge and create very difficult conditions, even for seasoned sailors. Inexperienced people taking silly risks are a very dangerous combination.”

Coastguards also urge revellers who make spur-of-the-moment decisions to go for a late-night dip after being out on the town to take heed.

Mr Overton said: “Alcohol impairs reactions and the cold night-time sea and air temperatures are pretty unforgiving.”

Water users with boats and jet skis are also advised to make sure their equipment is properly overhauled before putting to sea for the first time after the winter lay-off. Ensuring that equipment is in good working order is essential in avoiding any breakdowns.

Mr Overton said: “We do not want to spoil anyone’s enjoyment but people should treat the sea with the utmost respect at all times.”