With a cold snap forecast this week and winter drawing ever closer, 771 Search and Rescue Squadron at Royal Naval Air Station Culdrose is well prepared.

The squadron is flying in increasingly challenging conditions in order to keep Cornwall safe. Whereas before, the tourists came to surf, sail and tan, now the hardened few will brave the weather for thrills.

The coastal path will be as popular as ever on those crisp winter mornings but even when the sun is shining, there will be added hazards such as stronger winds and icy surfaces making walking more treacherous.

The roads will be wetter, darker and more slippery, increasing the hazards for drivers.

The search and rescue squadron will, as always, be ready for the call, mindful of the hazards associated with winter flying. "The Sea King Mk5 is a tough old bird, but as with all helicopters, there are a few things that are best avoided," said a spokesman. “For starters, flight in cloud, fog or rain in freezing temperatures can cause ice to build up on rotor blades and fuselage, increasing weight and vibration, and changing the aerodynamics of the blades. Fog will occur more readily, bringing visibility right down and making searches and field landings very difficult. Big seas will make surfers and other small waterborne objects harder to spot, and will turn a simple winch transfer into a major undertaking. Without shelter, casualties will find themselves getting cold extremely quickly, making emergency service response time critical to their survival.

“All of this will of course be aggravated by the lack of daylight. However, like all of the Naval Air Squadrons at Royal Naval Air Station Culdrose, 771 Squadron conduct rigorous training every day of the year to ensure that they are ready for every eventuality.” As always, the message to the public is clear – heed the weather forecast, dress for the cold and avoid taking risks.