Remember that since 1947, when Surf Life Saving Patrols at Point Lonsdale commenced and 1999, when Professional Lifeguard Patrols commenced at Queenscliff, nobody has ever drowned between the red and yellow flags. In that same time, more than 3 people have drowned on Point Lonsdale beaches, either outside of patrol areas or when the beach is unpatrolled and several at Queenscliff.

1. Always swim or surf at a beach patrolled by surf lifesavers or lifeguards.

2. Swim between the red and yellow flags. These mark the safest areas to swim.

3. Avoid swimming alone or unsupervised.

4. Float with a rip current. Do not swim against it.

5. If you get into difficulty, stay calm, float and raise one arm until help arrives.

6. Don’t run and dive into the water, even if you checked for hazards earlier. Conditions can change.

7. Don’t swim directly after a meal.

8. Don’t swim under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

9. If you are unsure of the conditions, ask a surf lifesaver or lifeguard.

10. Read the signs. If a beach is closed don’t swim there.

11. Use 15+ sunscreen, wear a shirt and a wide brimmed hat. Remember to reapply sunscreen after swimming.

12. Take only aluminium cans to the beach. They are less dangerous than glass bottles and can be easily recycled.


For additional tips, including information about the major cause of rescues in the surf; Rips, click on the link below. (Material provided by Life Saving Victoria, via the Water Safety web site).