Staying safe at the beach this summer

Published Date
09/01/2018
News Topic
Beaches & Lifeguards
Lifeguards are on duty at Randwick City beach this summer

As Sydney swelters in record temperatures, many residents and visitors to Randwick City will be flocking to our beautiful coastline over the next few weeks.

Randwick City lifeguards are there to ensure visitors can enjoy the beach safely. Before you go, take a look at our top four tips to ensure your visit is a safe and happy one:

1) Always swim between the flags

The flagged area is the safest zone in which to swim and enjoy the ocean, as this is where lifeguards can clearly see you. This will also be the area with the safest swimming conditions.

2) Read and obey the beach signs

Beach signage will indicate a known rip current and will also dictate usage zones (such as designated areas for surfers, those with inflatables and swimmers).

Beach signage3) Never swim alone or outside of patrol hours

Even the strongest swimmers can find themselves in difficulty. Swimming whilst lifeguards are on patrol increases your chances of being rescued should you need help. During the summer months, lifeguards patrol Coogee, Maroubra and Clovelly from 7am-7pm, but if in doubt, check the boards at each beach for patrol times.

If a beach is closed or unpatrolled, do not swim.

Lifeguards watch over the beach at Coogee

4) If you get into trouble, remain calm and signal for help by raising one arm above your head

If you find yourself in difficulty and need to signal to the lifeguards, remain calm and raise one arm above your head. If you find yourself in a rip current, don’t try to swim against it – instead, swim horizontal to the beach until you are free from the rip, and then return to shore. If you’re not a strong swimmer, float on your back – weak swimmers will tire quicker, so this is the best way to conserve your energy whilst you are awaiting assistance.

If in doubt, always seek the advice of a lifeguard. If you spot somebody in difficulty, alert the lifeguards, or if outside of patrol hours, call 000 and ask for the Police.

Last Updated: 1 March 2022
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