Swimming at the Beach

• The safest place to swim at the beach is between the red and yellow flags
• Mark a reference point on the shore, to avoid drifting
• Always read The Surf Conditions Board
• If you think conditions are too rough for you, don't go in
• Always swim with a friend, never alone
• Swim parallel to and not away from the shore when you swim long distances
• Swim in well lit areas, so you can be seen if you get into trouble
• For your safety, leave the water immediately when requested by a lifeguard

Rock Fishing

Rock Fishing is the process of fishing from rock ledges, submerged rocks, rock faces and rocks that go into the water. Rock Fishing is probably the most dangerous aquatic related sport in Australia.

Rock Fishing Checklist

• Observe first, fish later
• take time to observe the conditions
• Never fish by yourself
• Inform others of your plans
• Wear light clothing
• such as shorts and a spray jacket so that if you are swept off rocks you are buoyant and your clothes won't drag you down (don't wear waders as they will drag you down), also wear head protection- many people who have drowned received some sort of head injury.
• Wear a lifejacket or buoyancy vest even if you are a strong swimmer
• Wear the correct footwear- non-slip soles
• Carry a float and line to help anyone washed in
• Choose the safest possible location
• Always watch the waves
• spend at least half an hour watching the wind and wave action before deciding whether a place is suitable.
• Always check weather conditions and tides
• Plan an escape route in case you are washed in
• Stay alert - don't turn your back on the water
• Ask for advice from locals who know the area

Recreational Boating

From April 1 2007 every person in control of a vessel must have passed the Recreational Skippers Ticket (RST) . Developed by the Department of Planning and Infra-structure the RST will ensure that people in charge of vessels have the minimum skills and knowledge to protect themselves, their passengers, and to share the water ways safely with others.

When enjoying boating some basic tips to remember are:

• Do not mix boating and alcohol.
• Everyone on board a small boat should wear a PFD.
• Make sure your boat has emergency equipment (flares, first aid kit etc).
• Never go boating alone.
• Know the limitations of the boat and do not overload it.
• Follow the boating traffic rules.
• Check weather conditions, and continue to monitor weather reports.
• Always leave word of destination and estimated time of return.
• Wear and take appropriate spare clothes allowing for possible changes in the weather.
• Stow all gear safely.
• When entering or leaving a small boat, keep the weight low and centered.
• Keep the boat away from swimming areas, weirs, rocks and other craft.
• Keep a lookout for the warning signs of bad weather, such as:
• Clouds building up to windward.
• Wind rising quickly.
• Waves becoming bigger and occasional white caps appearing.
• If bad weather threatens, head for shore.
• Learn and practice capsize and person overboard drills.

Boaters can avoid injury by following some simple safety tips:

Personal Flotation Devices (PFD's) must be worn by all occupants on vessels up to and including 4.8 metres that are under way. PFD's are also required to be worn by the occupants of powerboats between 4.8 and 12 metres in length, and all ‘keel' and ‘ trail able' yachts at times of heightened risk for example, when boating alone, at night or crossing bars.

• Always let someone know where you are going and when you plan to return
• Make sure you check the weather before heading out and keep an eye on it at all times
• Ensure you have the correct safety equipment
• Know how to use the safety equipment, ensure it is in good condition and readily accessible in the event of an emergency
• Make sure your boat is properly maintained, its battery is fully charged and a supply of fuel is onboard
• Seek up-to-date local knowledge, particularly if heading inland, as conditions of rivers and lakes may be affected by low water levels
• Operate at a safe speed and maintain a good lookout
• Don't drink and boat - all boat operators and personal watercraft operators under the age of 21 are required to operate with no alcohol in their systems, and all other boaters need to keep to the 0.05 limit.