Sunderland Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) saved 93 people from the sea last year, according to rescue statistics issued today.
They had 70 launches of their volunteer lifeboat crews and lifeguards in 2015.
Andrew Ashton, RNLI divisional operations manager in the north of England, said: “The RNLI’s volunteer lifeboat crews and lifeguards have once again had a busy year, and I want to thank them for their hard work and dedication to saving lives.
“However, they couldn’t carry out their crucial role without the army of fundraisers and other volunteers who raise money and awareness of the RNLI in their local communities – they are the lifeblood of our charity.”
RNLI volunteer lifeboat crews carry pagers 24/7, never knowing what may lay ahead when the alarm is raised.
Mr Ashton added: “Our 2015 rescue statistics emphasise the need for everyone to respect the water and follow simple safety advice before heading to the coast.
“Some very basic precautions can keep people safe on and by the sea which, by its very nature, is unpredictable and can catch out even experienced water users.”
Mr Ashton has also issued the general public with tips to staying safe.
He said: “Checking a vessel’s engine and fuel before setting out to sea should help prevent our most common cause of rescue, machinery failure.
“Finding out tide times before going for a walk along the coast can make the difference between a pleasant day out and getting cut off by the tide.
“Always avoid places where you could be swept off your feet during stormy weather and, if you are visiting the beach in the summer and want to swim, be sure to visit a lifeguarded beach.”
The RNLI’s Respect The Water campaign aims to raise awareness of drowning and water safety with the aim of reducing the number of people who lose their lives at the coast. For more information go to www.rnli.org.uk/safety.