Electronic warning signs for Perth beaches?

Electronic signs fitted with alarms and emergency telephones could be placed on Western Australia's beaches under a plan to save vital minutes and ensure swimmers are alerted instantly to the risks of shark attack.

Following a number of shark attacks and fatalities on Western Australia's beaches, the WA Department of Fisheries and Surf Life Saving Western Australia are meeting local councils in an effort to streamline beach management issues currently councils have responsibility for closing beaches not patrolled by SLSWA when a shark is spotted or someone is attacked.

Perth newspaper The Sunday Times has reported that 'freeway-style' illuminated boards with emergency telephones are being considered as a solution

The model under discussion would enable officials to dial in remotely and punch in the desired message, such as 'beach closed' or 'shark spotted'.

Perth's famous Cottesloe Beach is likely to be first beach to pilot the program, with Cottesloe Cottesloe Mayor Kevin Morgan telling The Sunday Times "if this were to be something that is contemplated by the department, we would be happy to assist in trialling such technology."

Department of Fisheries shark response unit manager, Michael Burgess explained that he wanted to slash council response times, satating "the key is sharks move after a short time and that is why the initial quick response is important.

"Though councils do a great job, the rangers are not going to be around all the time."

Burgess said the system would also be useful for regional local governments covering vast tracts of coastline.

Image credit: Shutterstock.

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