Water Safety..., make it a priority!
30 December 2011
The tragic death of a two (2) year old toddler at West Lakes has prompted Police and Surf Life Saving SA again urging all to take care as the weather heats up.
With South Australia about to experience a significant increase in temperature, Surf Life Saving is issuing warnings to all to take care when heading down to the beach or any other water based venue.
The Police Water Operations Unit along with volunteer surf lifesavers and paid lifeguards are asking all aquatic users to take exercise extreme caution both in and around all water venues.
While Police are preparing a report for the coroner, and there are no suspicious circumstances, the tragic loss of life has all agencies appealing to parents, caregivers to be extra vigilant during the hot weather. 'As a parent I appreciate how quickly children can get around and you only have to turn your back for a minute and they are off', said State Manager Shane Daw. 'This is a very sad incident and our thoughts are with the family.'
'It is essential whether at home, on the river or at the beach to keep a watch on all children and know that some venues can be more dangerous than others due to access or conditions. Even for experienced swimmers and adults things can quickly go wrong so it is vital that safety paramount' said Shane Daw
Since last summer South Australia has had 4 other open water deaths including;
- Drowning of two tourists on Kangaroo Island in April
- Drowning at Port Noarlunga on 3 September
- Drowning at Port Noarlunga on 13 September
The Police Water Operations Unit will be actively patrolling during the next few days on many water ways including rivers and the general coastline and are reminding all to:
- Ensure you have adequate PFD's
- Plan your trip, make sure someone knows where you are going and when you can be expected back
- Remember that Police will be performing random breath testing.
Surf Life Saving SA provides the following message to all aquatic users:
Swimming at Patrolled Beaches:
- Look for the DHL/Westpac Surf Rescue Patrol Shelters - this is where surf lifesavers will be set up and patrolling the beach from
- Swim between the red and yellow flags - this is the area that surf lifesavers are watching and can respond to quicker than other areas.
- If unsure look for the surf lifesavers dressed in the DHL/Westpac Surf Rescue Patrol Uniforms - all South Australian surf lifesavers now have these identical uniforms making them even easier to spot.
- If caught in a rip - do not panic, float and raise one arm for help.
At non-patrolled beaches and other unpatrolled areas ie rivers, lakes:
- Learn how to identify rip currents, in-shore holes and other danger areas.
- Make sure you swim with others supervising who are capable of assisting you if you get into difficulty.
- Seek the advice of locals, surfers and others in remote or unfamiliar locations - in many instances they will be able to advise you of any concerns.
- Check for any signage, warnings etc.
- Know the area and know your own limits.
- If in doubt, stay out.
Safety around the pool:
- Ensure that all children are supervised at all times.
- Ensure that pool fences and gates are in good condition and working.
- Learn how to resuscitate.
Wednesday:
Passing Showers. Afternoon Clouds. Mild.
11 - 18° 
