Beach safety urged across holiday season

As Perth looks set to provide some warm summer days for the Christmas and New Year period, beachgoers are reminded not be complacent when it comes to their personal safety, and that of friends and family, when at the beach.

“While we encourage people to get out and enjoy the amazing coast that we have access to here in WA, we also remind them that the ocean is a dynamic environment and conditions can change very quickly”, said Surf Life Saving WA General Manager Chris Peck.

“Relax and have fun, but also remember to keep an eye out for friends and family, especially small children, around the water”.

The recently launched Australian beach safety campaign asks beach goers to imagine the ‘Think Line’ in the sand at every beach. At this line, they should stop to check for rips; look for other hazards and the safest place to swim; and plan how to stay safe, before entering the water.

“People often assume that if they are able to stand in the water that they are safe. What they don’t realise is, the speed and force at which a rip current can move is more than enough to carry them beyond standing depth and out to sea in a very short space of time”, said Mr Peck.

Surf Life Saving WA are also asking people to seek out a patrolled beach wherever possible.

“The swim between the flags message continues to be of utmost importance. This is the area of the beach patrolled by lifesavers, where they are able to pay the most attention and where they can best see you if you get into trouble,” said Mr Peck.

The WA community is very fortunate to have many volunteer surf lifesavers putting up their hand to provide patrol services across this busy holiday period”.

“We encourage people to take a few extra minutes to plan their trip and find out where patrols are scheduled, for not only their own safety but that of their friends and family as well”.

Surf Life Saving WA have a list of all patrolled beaches, as well as patrol times, available on their website at www.mybeach.com.au/holidaypatrols

SLSWA also reminds beach-goers to be mindful of the hot conditions, and to regularly apply sunscreen, keep hydrated and remember that consumption of alcohol impairs physical responses and decision-making processes and anyone that has consumed alcohol should reconsider entering the water.