Beachgoers are being urged to take responsibility for their own safety and swim between the flags following the State recording an increase in the number of drownings this summer.
Leading the call for caution, Premier, Dominic Perrottet said that, since 1 December, there had been 15 coastal deaths and drownings, including three rock fishermen, “which is two more than the same time last year”.
“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,” Mr Perrottet said.
Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience, Steph Cooke said there were simple precautions that beachgoers could take in and around the water to keep themselves safe.
“A tragedy can unfold in seconds on our beaches,” Ms Cooke said.
“Please supervise children, swim between the flags, wear a life jacket when required and always listen to the warnings from emergency services,” she said.
“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.”
Chief Executive Officer of Surf Life Saving NSW, Steve Pearce said despite the recent wet weather, lifesavers had had an extremely busy holiday period right across the State.
“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,” Mr Pearce said.
