No flags, no swim at our beaches

11 February 2019

NO FLAGS, NO SWIM AT OUR BEACHES

Waverley Council is concerned people are putting themselves at risk by swimming outside lifeguard patrolled times.

Waverley Council urges members of the public, in particular visitors to the area, to keep themselves safe and not swim outside patrolled hours.

Current patrolled hours are:

• 6am to 7pm daily (Bondi and Bronte beaches)
• 8.30am to 7pm daily (Tamarama Beach)

Council is currently investigating any interim measures we can put in place to protect the public, including a possible extension to patrol hours.

In the meantime, we strongly encourage all beach users to observe our current patrol hours.

Council would like to extend its thanks to both Surf Club members and Council’s own off-duty lifeguards who have been involved in recent out-of-hours rescues.

We will continue to work with Waverley’s surf clubs to ensure our residents and visitors are kept safe at the beach.

To ensure you have a safe day at the beach, remember:

• Always swim between the red and yellow flags- No flags, no swim.
• Never swim where you see the ‘Dangerous Current’ sign
• Swim during patrolled hours
• Follow Lifeguards’ instructions at all times
• Do not enter the water if you are under the influence of alcohol or other drugs
• Never swim alone
• Don’t go beyond your depth
• If you get caught in a rip- don’t panic! Float and stay calm.

Waverley Council has produced translations of key beach safety messages in 15 languages. The safety messages are translated from English in a simple, one-page, printable document for each of the 15 languages. For more, visit http://www.waverley.nsw.gov.au/recreation/beaches_and_coast/beach_safety/beach_safety_in_15_languages.

In the event of an emergency after-hours, please call 000.