A TRAGIC drowning in the Camden Haven area recently has been a sombre reminder to the entire community of the potential danger lurking at unpatrolled beaches.
To remind the community of this, the Camden Haven Surf Lifesaving Club held a beach safety and rip awareness demonstration at the club premises at North Haven on Saturday 10 January.
Close to 100 people filled the room as surf lifesaver Gary Hawkins gave a detailed presentation around the importance of swimming on patrolled beaches.
Attendees were reminded to swim between the red and yellow flags at all times and that it is never too late to learn to swim.
Club President Kate Dwyer told News Of The Area, “I’m absolutely stoked with the turnout today, particularly the number of young families.
“It is wonderful that so many people want to learn about beach safety.”
This was followed by a demonstration on the beach with a purpose made dye to indicate the location of a rip, with swimmers advised not to swim against a rip but rather to try and use their energy to stay afloat whilst signalling for help.
Attendees were reminded that if signs indicate a beach is closed, they must be followed, as closures mean conditions are unsafe, with rips responsible for more rescues than any other hazard.
They were also encouraged to download the free Beachsafe app to access up-to-date safety information for beaches across Australia.
Maintained by the Surf Lifesaving Association, the app provides detailed information from patrol status, facilities and hazards to weather, swell and tide.
The friendly team at Camden Haven Surf Lifesaving Club are happy to have a chat or answer questions.
New volunteers are always welcome.
By Rachael Thorpe
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