Air-raid sirens or gas-powered bird scarers could be introduced to announce the launch of lifeboats.
But concerns have been raised by West Mersea's lifeboat crew that they would be a poor replacement for the traditional maroons, which the RNLI considers potentially dangerous.
Lifeboat operations manager Roger Paramor said: "Maroons are a very useful asset and will be missed. We still have a limited supply, but have been told to only use them in dire emergencies."
Mr Paramor said the alternatives were "not good enough".
RNLI spokesman Carol Waterkeyn confirmed both air-raid sirens and bird scarers were being looked at. She said. "Personal safety is the main issue with the maroons."
More in today's Evening Gazette
Published Wednesday, February 22, 2006
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article