Iconic Red and Yellow Flags Fly High

The iconic reds and yellow flags will be flying high from Saturday 18th September 2021 as Central coast volunteer lifesavers raise their flags to signify the start of the season. Our 15 clubs have been working tirelessly behind the beach to prepare and ensure all members and equipment are ready to take to the beach for another season, albeit with some modification to ensure the public and members are kept safe both in the water and on the beach.

The 9,000 hours of service our 15 clubs provide each season is an integral part of ensuring our community is kept safe while visiting the beach. Last season our patrol teams performed 648 recues, 42,971 preventative actions, 1,500 first aids and we had zero lives lost between the red and yellow flags. This is a fantastic effort by our volunteer Lifesavers whose vigilance and commitment makes this possible.

Whilst no lives were lost on our 15 Central Coast patrolled beaches, sadly two members of the public lost their lives in unpatrolled locations on the Central Coast. Last season across Australia 136 people lost their lives along our coastlines according to the National Coastal Safety report. The report also indicates that drownings were 14% above the national 10year drowning average with males staggeringly making up 90% of these statistics. It also showed that 51% of all drownings occurred 1km – 5km from a lifesaving service. “Everyone should be able to return home safe after a visit to the beach and swimming at a patrolled location during patrol hours gives you peace of mind if you were to get into trouble,” said President Surf Life Saving Central Coast.

Despite an increase of 34% of visitors to our beaches, our volunteer Lifesavers managed preventative actions and rescues to an increase of only 11%, meaning the commitment and strength of the volunteer patrolling members is second to none in managing the beaches and public safety.

“This season the message is clear Swim between the red and yellow flags. Volunteer Lifesavers and Lifeguards are trained to keep you safe at the beach and provide you with assistance when you need it” said Simon Cusack Director of Lifesaving Surf Life Saving Central Coast.

It is also important to remember these five safety tips when visiting the beach.

1. Always swim between the red and yellow flags
2. Ask a lifesaver or lifeguard for advice.
3. Read the safety signs
4. Always swim with a friend
5. If you need help, stay calm and raise your arm