Travel Weblog #030: Swim Between the Flags
Following on from Travel Weblog #29, I thought that I would have a quick chat about swimming at Australian beaches.
I’ve had some near death experiences in the ocean. Most of these have occured when I have been either surfing or working on fishing boats and they have usually happened when the sea is very big. I have learnt that the sea can be a very unforgiving mistress.
I have also learnt about things like rips including how to recognise the, what to do if you get caught in a rip, never surf alone, always let someone know where you are heading. However, most of this knowledge has been collected over the course of my lifetime, having been brought up in a small coastal town in New Zealand and spending a lot of time at beaches since.
For many people who have not had the chance to get this knowledge, the sea can be a deceptively placid and friendly thing. But, it can be very dangerous. According to expertguide.com, 40 people drowned on Australian beaches during the 2003-2004 season. Of these 40 people, 9% were international tourists.
How can you make your time at an Australian beach fun and safe? It’s easy - Swim between the flags. This is something that is drummed into Ozzie kids, but many people from oversaes may not be aware of. Of the 40 dead people mentioned previously, none were swimming between the red and yellow flags at the beach.
These red and yellow flags are put there by the local surf lifesaving club. You will find these clubs at most beaches throughout Australia. According to Surf Life Saving Australia, you should always:
F Find the flags and swim between them - the red and yellow flags mark the safest place to swim at the beach.
L Look at the safety signs - they help you identify potential dangers and daily conditions at the beach.
A Ask a surf lifesaver for some good advice - surf conditions can change quickly so talk to a surf lifesaver or lifeguard before entering the water.
G Get a friend to swim with you - so you can look out for each other’s safety and get help if needed. Children should always be supervised by an adult.
S Stick your hand up for help - if you get into trouble in the water, stay calm, raise your arm to signal for help. Float with a current or rip - don’t try and swim against it.
Safe travels.
Doc Martin.