A warning over the dangers of jet skis and motorboats has been given following a recent spike in the number of incidents in recent weeks around the Cornish coastline.

While some saw people simply breaking down, other incidents included jet skis and motor boats overturning in the water, getting too close to other vessels, collisions and conflict between users of these craft and other sea users, such as swimmers.

Two of incidents resulted in fatalities.

Richy Williams, senior coastal operations officer for the area, said: “The majority of PWC and motor craft users operate their vessels responsibly but there are some who don’t respect the water, the capabilities of their vessels and other water users.

“We want people to enjoy themselves at the coast, but also to make sure they’re staying safe.

“Jet skis, PWCs [personal water crafts] and motor vessels can be powerful machines, so always operate your vessel within the limits of your, and your vessel's, capabilities.

"Be aware of the presence of other water users and ensure that you are aware of the impact your activities have on others."

Among the recent incidents was one at the start of this month, when Penlee Inshore Lifeboat was called to Marazion.

At the time a lifeboat spokesperson said: "The volunteer crew of our Atlantic 85 Inshore lifeboat ‘Mollie and Ivor Dent’ were asked to head across Mount’s Bay to Marazion and give words of advice to two jet skiers who were travelling far too close to the shore/beach and to swimmers in the water.

"They were also towing a dinghy behind them with people onboard."

The spokesperson went on to say that "strong words of advice" were given.

Mr Williams went on to say: "Ensure you have a means of alerting the coastguard if you get into difficulties such as a VHF, handheld VHF or mobile phone in a dry bag.

"A personal locator beacon (PLB) may be useful for more remote locations, along with flares and, where possible, always wear a kill cord which will cut your vessels engine should you move away from its controls or become detached from your vessel.

“Know the bylaws that are in place in the location you are operating your vessel, stick to them and be respectful of other water users.

"If you see anyone putting others at risk or in difficulty at the coast, call 999 and ask for the coastguard.”