Marine watch
The 350 mile long Essex coast is the second longest coastline of any English county. With the River Thames Estuary to the south, the county has other navigable waterways including the rivers Lee and Stort in the west, and the Chelmer and Blackwater Navigation to the east.
Marine Watch is offered as a free service to the marine and freshwater communities. It is aimed at boat owners, persons who partake in water-based activities, or services, local members of the public and also visitors to the coast and internal waterways of Essex.
Our aims
- To reduce any criminal activity, vandalism or theft within the community.
- To foster community spirit amongst marine and waterway users and local residents.
- Develop and encourage closer liaison between the marine and freshwater communities, Essex Police, and partner agencies.
- To encourage the use of crime prevention measures and provide relevant topical safety advice to those who use, live, work or visit the Essex coast or waterways.
- To encourage the reporting of all suspicious activity, including human trafficking and modern slavery.
What we do
- Liaise with Marine Watch Members through a dedicated Essex Watch Liaison Officer (EWLO).
- Provide members with regular information by email in relation to relevant crimes.
- Provide advice regarding security measures.
- Inform members of relevant news and events.
- Work with key partners, such as Essex Waterways Ltd, Canal & River Trust, local councils, local communities and neighbouring forces to tackle marine related crime.
Joining marine watch
If you'd like more information about our marine watch scheme, or to register your interest, please contact us.
