We are lucky to live in a beautiful part of the world. Port Macquarie boasts great beaches, lakes, and pools. As the weather gets warmer, many of us will be spending our summer holidays in and around the water!

Royal Life Saving Australia have launched campaign to educate us on water safety so that everyone can enjoy the water safely this summer. Their top 5 tips include:

 

  1. Always supervise children around the water

Supervision is the single most important thing adults can do to keep your children safe around water. We all know how busy things can get, especially in the school holidays!

When you’re trying to do many things at once, this is when you can get distracted. Children can wander away unnoticed while parents attend to other tasks. Remember to always Keep Watch and to keep within arm’s reach. Click here to learn more.

 

  1. Avoid alcohol around water

Consuming alcohol before swimming can significantly increase your risk of drowning. Even small amounts of alcohol reduce coordination and can impair your judgement and reaction time.

Be sure to also look out for your family and friends who have consumed alcohol and are thinking about going into the water. Click here to learn more.

 

  1. Wear a lifejacket when boating and fishing

Be sure that the whole family are wearing their lifejackets when having a fun day out on the water. A lifejacket is one of the most essential pieces of safety equipment when boating. You should wear a lifejacket when boating, jet skiing, sailing, kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, fishing etc. Learn more about lifejackets here.

 

  1. Know the conditions

Unfamiliar waters pose more of a risk than spots you visit and swim in regularly. If you are going on holidays this summer, always check weather alerts before and during your trip to the beach. Water conditions can change rapidly. Know your own limitations and if in doubt, stay out of the water.

 

  1. Avoid going alone

No matter your skill or experience level, avoid going in the water alone. Always swim with family or friends. If you do go alone, always swim at a patrolled beach or a pool with lifeguards on duty.

 

For more information on water safety visit Royal Life Saving Australia. A huge thank you to all of our life guards and life savers who help to keep us safe in and around the water.