Essential safety information to keep you and your family safe in and around water. Water safety saves lives.
ALWAYS swim between the red and yellow flags. These mark the safest area patrolled by professional surf lifesavers.
Always swim with a buddy or at patrolled beaches. Most drownings involve people swimming alone.
Active adult supervision within arm's reach at all times. Never leave children unattended near water.
Understand how to spot rip currents and what to do if caught. Don't panic, don't fight it.
Don't overestimate your swimming ability. If in doubt, don't go out. Check conditions before entering.
Rip currents are the #1 hazard on Australian beaches. Knowing how to identify and escape them can save your life.
A rip current is a powerful, narrow channel of water flowing from shore back out to sea. They can move faster than an Olympic swimmer and are responsible for most beach rescues in Australia.
DANGER - DO NOT ENTER THE WATER
Red flags indicate dangerous conditions. Beach is closed to swimming. Never enter the water when red flags are flying.
SAFE SWIMMING AREA
Swim between these flags. This is the patrolled area monitored by surf lifesavers. Safest place to swim.
CRAFT AREA - NO SWIMMING
Area designated for surfboards, kayaks, and other craft. Do not swim in this area.
Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. Protect yourself from UV radiation.
Knowing CPR can save a life. In drowning cases, every second counts.
What to do in a water emergency:
How to treat common marine stings:
Water safety education is critical in Australia, where aquatic activities are central to our lifestyle. Each year, drowning remains a leading cause of accidental death, making water safety awareness essential for everyone who enjoys swimming, whether at beaches, pools, rivers, or other waterways.
Beach safety begins with understanding the five golden rules: swim between the flags, never swim alone, actively supervise children, learn about rip currents, and know your limits. Rip currents are the primary hazard on Australian beaches, accounting for more rescues than any other beach danger. Learning to identify rips and knowing how to escape them can save your life.
Pool safety is equally important, particularly for families with young children. Home pools must comply with state regulations regarding fencing and gate requirements. Active supervision - keeping children within arm's reach - is essential whenever children are near water.
Australian surf lifesavers and lifeguards patrol hundreds of beaches across the country, providing professional emergency response and preventive safety education. Swimming at patrolled beaches between the red and yellow flags is the safest way to enjoy ocean swimming.
Beyond swimming safety, sun safety is crucial in Australia's harsh UV environment. Following the Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek, Slide guidelines helps prevent skin cancer while enjoying outdoor aquatic activities.
Learning CPR and first aid equips you with life-saving skills. In drowning situations, every second matters, and knowing how to respond can make the difference between life and death. Regular CPR refresher courses ensure your skills remain current.
Stay safe in the water by staying informed, following safety guidelines, and always erring on the side of caution. If in doubt, don't go out.