Stay Safe on the Beach This Summer
If we can’t see you, we can’t save you. So please be safe and always swim between the red and yellow flags.
• Always swim at patrolled locations
• Swim between the red and yellow flags. They mark the safer area for swimming
• Always swim under supervision. Read and obey the safety signs
• If you are unsure of surf conditions, ask a lifesaver/ lifeguard
• Don’t swim under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Never run or dive in the water, even if you have checked before as water conditions can change
• If you get into trouble in the water, stay calm. Signal for help, float and wait for assistance
• Learn how to spot a rip and keep clear of it
• A rip can be recognised by sand coloured 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
Rip Currents
The "Killy Express"
Killcare Beach has an almost permanent rip at the South end of the beach, next to the rock pool. While it's very useful for surfers to get out the back quickly, it's very dangerous for swimmers. PLEASE DO NOT swim here.
The Facts About Rips
There are many myths about the ocean. Many people think it’s just tourists and poor swimmers who get caught in rips currents. In fact, it’s young men aged 15-39 years who are most likely to die in rips. Rips are the number one hazard on Australian beaches. The best way to avoid a rip is to swim at a patrolled beach between the red and yellow flags.
How to Spot a Rip Current
Rips are complex, can quickly change shape and location, and at times, are difficult to see. The things to look for are deeper, dark-coloured water; fewer breaking waves; a rippled surface surrounded by smooth waters; and anything floating out to sea or foamy, discoloured, sandy, water flowing out beyond the waves. Rips don’t always show all of these signs at once. Can you spot a rip?
How to Survive a Rip Current
Stay calm and consider your options. Raise an arm to seek help. Try floating with the current, it may bring you back to shore. Swim parallel to the shore or towards breaking waves and use them to help you in. Reassess your situation. If what you’re doing isn’t working, try one of the other options until you’re rescued or return to shore.
For more information about rips and other beach safety tips, visit www.beachsafe.org.au