The Battle of Helgoland, which took place on August 28, 1914, was the first naval battle of the First World War. The British had observed that German destroyers followed a regular pattern of patrols, and planned to ambush these destroyers. The attack was a success; six German ships of various sizes were sunk and heavy damage inflicted on several others. Over 700 German sailors were killed. Meanwhile, the British fleet sustained little damage. This battle changed the Kaiser's attitude regarding his fleet, ordering that the fleet be held back to avoid further losses.