Surf Life Saving Queensland (SLSQ) is urging visitors across Wide Bay Capricorn beaches to exercise caution and consider the risk involved by not swimming between the red and yellow flags.
It comes as lifeguards and lifesavers brace for record crowds this long weekend, with thousands of people expected to flock to the region’s beaches over the coming three days.
A new safety campaign, released today by SLSQ, reminds beachgoers of the consequences of not swimming in the flagged area.
SLSQ Regional Operations Manager Craig Holden said the campaign highlighted the need for beach safety to be made a priority, in much the same way road safety was considered essential.
“The campaign highlights the significance of swimming between the flags through a comparison which will hopefully resonate with the community and encourage people to take beach safety more seriously,” Mr Holden said.
“You wouldn’t get in a car and not buckle your seatbelt, so why risk your life by going to the beach and not swimming between the flags?
“Everyone, from children to the elderly, understand and appreciate the importance of road safety and wearing a seatbelt. We want beach safety, and the act of swimming between the red and yellow flags, to become a habit also.”
Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett said it’s important we all have a bit of fun this Australia Day but there’s nothing more important than your own safety.
“Being beach safe is about understanding and recognising the potential dangers, learning how to avoid them and knowing how to help someone if they get into trouble,” he said.
“We are very lucky in our region to have so many great places to take a dip but it’s absolutely vital we never become complacent because that is when accidents and tragedies happen.
“In the Wide Bay thankfully over the Christmas break we saw most people doing the right thing with but now is not the time to let our guards down.
“I’m urging everyone in the community to find the flags, look at the safety signs and always go swimming with a friend.”
24.01.19