Be safe by the water this long weekend

The weather is looking great for the upcoming Labour Day break - make sure it's a safe one.

Whether you're enjoying some time away from Bayside or exploring our popular and picturesque beaches and open spaces, we can all take steps to stay safe while having fun.

Be safe by the water

Overestimating your swimming ability and underestimating the dangers at Victoria’s beaches, lakes and rivers increase your risk of drowning.

When at the beach, swim between the red and yellow flags where lifeguards can see you if you get into trouble. When swimming at a lake or river, you should read the safety signs first to understand dangers.

Also, if you're consuming alcohol, postpone drinking until after your swim, as alcohol affects your swimming ability and judgement.

Remember, when looking out for the safety of others, the people you’re looking out for should also include you.

Know the conditions. Know your limits.

Find out more about play it safe by the water.

Stay COVID safe

Remember to:

Maintain a distance of 1.5 metres between yourself and others. That’s about the length of the average beach towel. Keep a mask with you at all times in case you can't stay 1.5m apart or enter an indoor space where masks are mandatory Don’t gather in public areas such as beaches or parks in groups larger than permitted under current restrictions.  This also applies to gatherings in your home - check the DHHS website if you are unsure. Practice good hand hygiene – carry hand sanitiser and use it after touching items and surfaces. Wash your hands before you leave home and when you return from your day out Do you ‘know the five’?

If you are out on the water, make sure you know the five.

Recent research has uncovered the top five behaviours that lead to incidents and fatalities on boats, kayaks and paddleboards each year. While many boaters and paddlers understand the importance of checking the weather and wearing a lifejacket, other behaviours such as practising to get back on your boat or kayak are less well known.

With Victorian waterways busier than usual and more newcomers to boats and kayaks this year, it is important to be prepared to stay safe when out on the water.

Prepare to survive - know the five:

1. Know the weather

2. Practise getting back on

3. Carry a distress beacon

4. Lock in a buddy plan

5. Wear a lifejacket.

Find out more

You might just help save a life this summer.

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