Northern Beaches Council is urging people to take their safety seriously this summer after 48* people lost their lives on NSW beaches and coastal waters last year – 6 alone on the Northern Beaches - making us the third highest in the state.
To prevent any further drownings, Council has launched a beach safety campaign aimed at educating and raising awareness among beachgoers about the importance of safe practices and measures to prevent accidents to ensure an enjoyable day at the beach.
The campaign launch corresponds with the first day of summer and National Water Safety Day.
Northern Beaches Mayor Sue Heins said the campaign is aimed not only for visitors, but also locals.
“We’re so fortunate here on the Northern Beaches to share 24 incredible ocean beaches but locals and visitors need to be aware of the risks naturally occurring around our ocean and coastline.
“One life lost, is one too many. Going to the beach for a swim is enshrined in our culture and is a favourite summer pastime. We want everyone to come to our beaches, have a great day out and go home safely.
“Our campaign seeks to empower individuals with knowledge and practical tips to make informed decisions while enjoying the sun, sand and sea with a series of engaging and informative short videos, signage at high-risk beaches, carparks and other well visited locations.” Mayor Heins said.
On the Northern Beaches, Council’s professional lifeguards share the responsibility of keeping our beaches safe with volunteers from 21 Surf Life Saving Clubs.
Throughout the week professional lifeguards, and on weekends and public holidays, a combination of volunteer surf lifesavers and our professional lifeguards manage beach safety.
Last year over 10.8 million people visited our beaches with 1,427 rescues and 4,300 first aid cases requiring attention.
There were also 425,000 preventative actions undertaken by the lifeguards and volunteer lifesavers primarily involving directing swimmers to swim between the flags, away from rips, and directing board riders to steer clear of the flags.
“Rips are the number one contributor to coastal drowning accounting for 27%*. If you’re unsure about conditions or signage, ask one of lifeguards or volunteers. And of course, if you do get into trouble in the surf, as hard as it may be, remain calm and raise your hand for help.
“Let’s make this summer the safest we can.” Ms Heins said.
Our top beach safe tips:
- Swim at a patrolled beach and between the flags
- Read the safety signs for information about the beach and if you are unsure ask a lifesaver or lifeguard
- Always swim with someone else so you can look out for each other
- If you need help in the water, stay calm and attract attention by raising one arm
To find the status (open/closed) of one of our patrolled beaches visit our website.
Find out how to be beach safe this summer here.
And don’t forget to slip, slop, slap to cover up from the sun’s harmful rays.
* Drownings by Surf Life Saving Branch as detailed in the NSW Coastal Safety Report