If you’re hitting the beach this summer, remember to stay safe. Follow these tips from Surf Life Saving Northern Region so that everyone has a great time.
- Stick to patrolled beaches and always swim between the flags
- If in doubt, stay out!
- Swim with friends – never swim or surf alone.
- Keep a close eye on tamariki (children) in or near the water. If you’re at a surf beach, stay in the water next to them at all times.
- Don’t overestimate your ability – or your children’s ability – to cope with water conditions.
- Watch out for rips! Rips are strong currents of water that can carry you away from the shore. Calm, deep patches of water close to the shore with waves breaking to either side can often indicate a rip. Discoloured, rippled or foamy water with debris can also mean a rip is present.
- Be smart around rocks. Whether you’re fishing or exploring, rocky outcrops can be dangerous in the surf. Always wear a lifejacket when fishing. Never stand on a rock outcrop that is already wet (a sure sign waves will be washing over it) and always face the sea – never turn your back on the ocean.
- If you’re away from home, check with the locals and ask them about the conditions and the safest place to swim.
- If you see someone in trouble at an unpatrolled beach, ensure your own safety first, then ring 111 and ask for the police.
- Check out safeswim.org.nz to see the conditions at your local beach.
Surf Life Saving Northern Region is supported by the ratepayers of Auckland.
Be smart around rocks
Whether you’re fishing or exploring, rocky outcrops can be dangerous in the surf. Always wear a lifejacket when fishing. Never stand on a rock outcrop that is already wet (it's a sure sign that waves will be washing over it) and always face the sea – never turn your back on the ocean.
