Beach safety urged over holiday period

As WA looks set to provide some warm summer days for the Christmas and New Year period, Surf Life Saving WA are reminding beachgoers not to 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 beaches 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”.

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, including the Christmas, Boxing Day and New Year ’s Day public holidays”.

“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 friends and family as well”.

For a full list of all beaches with public holiday patrols, including patrol times, see below.

Beachgoers are also reminded 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.