Lifeguards will patrol Gold Coast beaches for extended hours from tomorrow, as summer crowds build for the holiday period.
Mayor Tom Tate said Gold Coast Lifeguards and volunteer surf lifesaving clubs would be on beaches between 7.30am to 6.30pm from December 14 until January 31.
Mayor Tate said the extended beach patrols would involve 280 lifeguards patrolling 42 beaches.
“We ask all Gold Coasters and visitors to be responsible and follow some simple rules when they visit the beach these holidays,” he said.
“Make sure you always swim between the flags and keep a close eye on your children at all times. Avoid swimming at night and don’t swim under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.”
Mayor Tate said beach conditions were unpredictable, especially at this time of year, and it was important to remember that if lifeguards couldn’t see you they couldn’t save you.
He said the City’s annual Summer Surf Safety campaign would again focus on promoting beach safety messages to the most at-risk audiences, including young adult males and international visitors.
“Earlier this year there were two drownings outside the flags on Gold Coast beaches with both being international visitors.
“Already this summer, lifeguards have rescued 390 people and carried out over 8000 preventative measures.”
Gold Coast Chief Lifeguard Chris Maynard said ocean conditions had been very dangerous this month with light easterly winds and consistent east swell causing strong rips close to the shore.
“Even if the water looks calm, the ocean can be unpredictable with conditions changing suddenly,” Mr Maynard said.
“This, coupled with a surge in population and tourism means we will continue to expand our patrols and ensure the community is aware of the important rules that will keep them safe when they visit our beaches.”
Key surf safety tips:
- Always swim between the red and yellow flags.
- No flags = no swim.
- Keep a close eye on your children at all times.
- Never swim at night and never swim under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.
- FLOAT to SURVIVE. If you are caught in a rip, don’t fight it, FLOAT with the rip.
- If you find yourself in trouble in the water, wave your arm to gain attention of nearby surfers or lifeguards.
- If in doubt, don’t go out.
For more surf safety tips visit the Gold Coast City website.
