Beach Safety Hints

Millions of people visit Australia’s beautiful beaches every year to enjoy the environment and participate in different activities. Although Australian beaches may look amazing, they can be unpredictable and dangerous to anyone.

If you get into trouble, conserve your energy by floating on your back and staying calm. This will ensure you have the energy to remain afloat until assistance arrives.

Here you will find some very helpful advice on beach safety, to ensure you enjoy your visit to the beach and stay safe: 

• Always swim or surf at places patrolled by lifesavers or lifeguards.
• Swim between the red and yellow flags. They mark the safer area for swimming.
• Always swim under supervision.
• If you are unsure of surf conditions, ask a lifeguard.
• Don’t swim directly after a meal.
• Don’t swim under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Never run or dive in the water. Even if you have checked before. Water conditions can change
• If you get into trouble in the water, stay calm. Signal for help, float and wait for assistance.
• Use 30+ sunscreen and wear a shirt and hat. Remember to reapply sunscreen after swimming.
• Learn how to spot a rip and keep clear of it. A rip can be recognized by sand colored or rippled water running out to sea when the water on either side is generally cleaner. The waves may also be larger and breaking further out to sea on both sides of the rip.
• Keep the beach clean, put your rubbish in a bin up in the car park and keep off the duned areas. They are there to preserve the beach environment.