Tombstoning involves jumping or diving from a height into water.

It is a high-risk activity, which is unregulated and undertaken by unsupervised individuals.

Tombstoning can be dangerous because:

- Water depth alters with the tide; the water may be shallower than it seems

- Submerged objects like rocks may not be visible; they can cause serious injury if you jump onto them

- The shock of cold water may make it difficult to swim

- Strong currents can rapidly sweep people away


Think before you jump. Don't let alcohol, drugs or peer pressure affect your judgement. Even if you are jumping safely, children may be watching and copy your actions.

Since 2005 there have been 10 deaths and 36 serious injuries due to Tombstoning.

Don't jump into the unknown.

Listen to the new tombstoning radio filler here.

(For a broadcast quality version of the audio please contact COI on 0207 261 8873.)
To download the wmv file, please right click and save as to drive.

Nick Biddlecombe was interviewed by Radio One's Newsbeat about the incident.  Watch the short video. (3.5 minutes)

Coastal safety partners can download our tombstoning poster for distribution here or laminated posters can be ordered from EC Group on 0845 603 2431 or email mca@ecgroup.co.uk.


To find out what RoSPA have to say about Tombstoning, click here.