Easter, according to Surf Life Saving NSW, is a notoriously high-risk holiday for drownings so please don't take any risks.
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Surf Life Saving NSW does not want people to become a drowning statistic over the Easter break and they want people to consider their safety before going into the water in and around the Shoalhaven area.
In NSW, over the last three seasons has averaged a coastal drowning every 8.9 days.
During the Easter long weekend this spikes to a drowning every two days - this period accounts for approximately five per cent of the total drownings for the entire season in just four days.
Surf Life Saving NSW CEO Steven Pearce said if you're heading to the beach over Easter please take care.
"Only swim at a patrolled location, check the weather and tide forecasts, and wear the correct safety gear including a life jacket if you're fishing from rocks or boating," he said.
With a run of above average temperatures expected across much of the coast, many people will be looking to make the most of the break and head to the beach or inland waterways to keep cool.
"Sadly there have been 32 coastal drownings in NSW since July with 19 over summer alone," Mr Pearce said.
"These figures are concerning and highlight the need for us to remain vigilant and make sensible decisions for ourselves and our families."
Volunteer lifesavers perform between 300-500 rescues on average over Easter. Emergency callouts also increase significantly and incidents are between 3 and 5 times more likely to occur over the Easter long weekend than an average patrol day.
Beach Safety Tips
- Always swim between the red and yellow patrol flags, for your nearest patrolled beach check the BeachSafe app or website
- Read the safety signs for information about the beach and ask a lifesaver or lifeguard for safety information
- Always swim with someone else so you can look out for each other, and always supervise children around the water
- Never swim under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- If you need help in the water, stay calm and attract attention by raising one arm
- In an emergency, dial Triple Zero Police
For information about patrol times, weather, and beach locations visit the Beachsafe Website or Download the App.