Public reminded to observe water safety warnings following spike in NSW coastal drownings

Ahead of Australia Day and with NSW having recorded an increase in the number of drownings this summer, beachgoers are urged to be responsible and observe all water safety advice and warnings such as to swim between the flags, supervise children, limit alcohol and wear a lifejacket.

Since 1st December, there have been 15 coastal deaths and drownings, including three rock fisherman, which is two more than the same time last year.

Surf Life Saving NSW Chief Executive Steve Pearce said despite the recent wet weather, Surf Life Saving NSW has had an extremely busy holiday period across the State.

Pearce advised “The NSW coastline boasts beautiful beaches and everyone can enjoy them safely by checking the conditions before swimming, wearing a life jacket when boating or rock fishing and remembering that alcohol and water activities don’t mix.”

Over the Australia Day long weekend last year, surf lifesavers and lifeguards rescued 815 people, which accounted for 22% of all rescues recorded in the entire year.

NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet notes “Australia Day is traditionally a high-risk holiday on our waterways. While our lifesavers and first responders are always vigilant, this is one of the days where more rescues and sadly drownings often occur.

“Whether you’re at a beach, pool, river or lake, my message to swimmers is to know the risks, be aware of your surroundings and look out for each other.”

NSW Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience Steph Cooke said beachgoers can take simple precautions in and around the water to keep themselves safe.

“A tragedy can unfold in seconds on our beaches. Please supervise children, swim between the flags, wear a life jacket when required and always listen to the warnings from emergency services.

“I want to thank the 75,000 Surf Life Saving NSW volunteers and 129 surf clubs who have worked tirelessly this summer to keep locals and visitors safe on our beaches.”

Local state member for Pittwater and Surf Lifesaver Rob Stokes thanked the Warriewood surf club for their tireless efforts, after a difficult summer holidays.

“Tragedy has struck here at Warriewood with the death of a rock fisherman on New Year’s Day. We ask all beachgoers be vigilant and make sure their trip to the beach is one to remember for all the right reasons,” Minister Stokes said.

Since 1st July, there have been more than 31 coastal drownings and deaths in NSW, including five rock fishermen.