One of the most common causes of tourist deaths in Australia is found on the glorious Australian beaches.
Each year quite a number of tourists (and locals too it must be said) drown on the shores. Australian beaches – particularly the long strips common on the Gold and Sunshine Coasts – have extremely strong rips and pulls that most people are unable to detect or handle.
Rips are generally channels of water perpendicular to the beach which take out the water which the incoming surf waves brings into shore. These apparently ‘calmer’ channels of water are what experienced surfers use for a fast lane out to sea. Inexperienced beach goers mistakenly use these channels or areas since they appear as calm water and look to be an easier area into which to swim in and out to shore. Problems generally arise when the novice swimmer tries to swim back into shore against the outgoing current or rip, realise they are getting nowhere so they panic and end up drowning.
If caught in a rip, stay calm to save energy and swim parallel to the beach ( not against the pull of the current ). Most rips are only a few metres wide, and once clear of the undertow, you will be able to return to shore. If you are not a strong swimmer, simply tread water and alert surf rescue to your plight by raising one hand above your head. You will probably find local swimmers or surfers will also quickly come to your aid. It is recommended that tourists unfamiliar with conditions at Australian beachs should never swim alone.
It is very important that people swim between the red and yellow flags which designate patrolled areas. Despite the sunny climate beaches are not patrolled 24-hours a day or even during all sunlight hours. In most cases the local volunteer surf lifesavers or professional lifeguards are only available during certain hours, and at most beaches only on weekends. If the flags aren’t up, then there’s no one patrolling – and you shouldn’t swim. Hard surfboards and other water craft e.g. surf skis, kayaks etc., are not permitted between the red and yellow flags. These craft must only be used outside of the blue ‘surfcraft permitted’ flags.
Crocodiles, sharks and the dreaded Box Jellyfish can all be found on Australia’s tropical beaches, depending on the time of year and area.
With the above precautions, a wonderful relaxing time at the many beautiful beaches in Australia awaits you.
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