As the first day of summer arrives on Saturday, Shellharbour City beach users are being urged to stay safe in the surf.
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Murray Copas, beach lifeguard supervisor with Shellharbour City Council said they wanted to reinforce the usual messages to summer beach users.
“Last year, there were 39 coastal drownings in NSW, so the message isn't getting through to everyone,” he said.
“We would offer the typical advice – like no flags, no swim, and read the safety signs.
“If there's red and yellow flags, that indicates there's a lifesaving service on duty.”
Mr Copas also encouraged community members never to swim alone, and encouraged beach users to ask a lifeguard for safety advice.
“When you arrive at the beach look for and identify the lifeguards,” he said.
“Feel free to ask them about the day’s conditions, as well any additional beach safety advice they might have for that specific beach – every beach is different.
“They can give you some insights about why the conditions aren't safe.
“The message isn't getting through to everyone, so we encourage people to talk to a lifeguard and get some more information.”
Mr Copas said they wanted the community to enjoy the beach this summer.
“We're here to make sure people enjoy their time, and have fun down the beach,” he said.
“If you are not feeling comfortable in the water and you require assistance to get back to shore, stay calm, raise your arm in the air and wave it from side to side.
“You should conserve your energy by floating on your back and staying calm. This will ensure you have the energy to remain afloat until further aid arrives.”
Currently, Shellharbour North and Warilla-Barrack Point beaches will be patrolled 9.30am to 5pm, with surf lifesaving volunteer lifesavers patrolling Saturday and Sundays and council lifeguards Monday to Friday.
During school holidays it will be 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.
Shellharbour South Beach will also be patrolled 9am to 5pm daily from December 22 until late January.
Patrols will change slightly during and after the Christmas school holidays, so be sure to follow council’s social media and check their website for details.
Adding to council’s rescue capabilities is a new jet ski and rescue sled.
This equipment will increase lifeguards’ capability in supporting local rescue services providing ocean rescue.
As for pools, Oak Flats Pool will be open 6am to 7pm every day from 10am to 6pm on public holidays.
Albion Park and Warilla pools will be open seven days, 6am to 6pm to March 29, and 10am to 6pm on public holidays.
Beverly Whitfield pool is open all year-round.