Coast guard

A coast guard is an organization that protects people at sea. The role of the coast guard varies greatly by country. The coast guard is sometimes part of a military or a semi-military organization, or it can be a law enforcement agency doing police work. However, the coast guard is separate from the navy.

For example, the United States Coast Guard (USCG) is a branch of the military and has duties that include searching for people, ships and boats in danger at sea; rescuing those in danger; and law enforcement to protect people from terrorism and crimes at sea. The coast guard can also become part of the Navy in a time of war. 

By contrast, Her Majesty's Coastguard in the United Kingdom is neither a military force nor a law enforcement agency. Its only job is to lead search and rescue operations for those in danger at sea, and the Royal National Lifeboat Institution launches most rescue boats.

 Related pages 

 Pakistan Coast Guard

Other websites
USCG website
USCG boating office