Professional beach patrols are now in place throughout the school holidays at Shoalhaven beaches.
Council is reminding holiday makers and locals to always swim between the red and yellow flags at patrolled beaches this summer.
Shoalhaven has more than 100 beautiful beaches along our stunning coastline for people to enjoy, but not all beaches have beach patrols. If you are planning to swim, it’s strongly recommended swimming at a patrolled beach, for your own safety and the safety of others.
To make your next trip to the beach safer, make sure you read the safety signs, ask a lifeguard for safety advice and swim with a friend. And please don’t enter the water if you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Beach wheelchairs hire service is also available during beach patrol season. Beach wheelchairs are designed for use on hard and soft sand, as well as low water and grassy areas, providing access to the ocean for all abilities in the community. People are advised to book ahead as there are 10 beach wheelchairs available for adults and children free of charge, at seven beaches across the Shoalhaven.
Rips are the number one hazard on the Shoalhaven beaches. Anyone caught in a rip is advised to stay calm, conserve energy and use one of the options recommended by Surf Life Saving NSW: raise an arm to seek help, float with the current until it releases you or swim parallel to the shore or towards breaking waves and use them to help you in.
Reserve a beach wheelchair here.
