Beach Safety Tips in the Hastings

The Port Macquarie-Hastings area has some of the most picturesque beaches within NSW. We have a wide range of differing beaches from long white sand beaches to small cosy beaches surrounded by rocks and headlands. Most of our beaches are adjacent to grassed reserves with some offering facilities including amenities, showers, drinking water stations, BBQ's, kiosks, tables and shelters.

During the summer months you have access to six patrolled beaches. Patrol times will change throughout the year so always check with Lifeguards or Volunteer Surf Lifesavers on duty to get the most up to date information.

Lifeguards or Volunteer Surf Lifesavers are only on patrol when the Red and Yellow Flags are in place.

Surf Safety Tips:

• Always swim or surf at a patrolled beach - Look for the Red and Yellow flags
• Only swim between the Red and Yellow Flags - this indicates the supervised swimming area
• Follow the simple rule "NO FLAGS, NO SWIM"
• Look for, read and obey all water safety signs
• Swim with friends or family - never swim alone
• Supervise children at all times - nothing can replace the close supervision of an parent or adult
• Never swim directly after eating or under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Always check the conditions before entering the water - never dive in head first. Remember conditions can change very quickly and every wave is different.
• Make sure you protect yourself from the sun - http://www.sunsmart.com.au/sun_protection
• Always drink plenty of water

REMEMBER: If you ever get caught in a rip current - Don't panic or fight the current, float and attract attention to yourself - the earlier the better, raise your arm and yell out "HELP" this will alert the Lifeguards or Volunteer Surf Lifesavers that you require assistance. NEVER BE AFRAID TO CALL FOR ASSISTANCE.

If you ever need any help on our beaches always talk to a Lifeguard or volunteer Surf Lifesaver. Look for the uniforms and ask for any advice or up to date information about the current conditions. We want you to have the most fun enjoying our surf and beaches, and be safe at the same time.

 Beach Safety Brochure (2.83MB)

Rip Currents

The Surf Lifesaving Australia is currently conducting a public education campaign about rip currents.

The Rip Current website provides great information about how to identify rips and how to avoid them - along with a range of helpful and practical beach safety advice.