10 COMMANDMENTS OF SURF SAFETY
Always swim or surf at a beach patrolled by lifesavers or lifeguards
Swim between the red and yellow flags. They mark the safest areas to swim
Avoid swimming alone or unsupervised
Read the signs. If a beach is closed, don’t swim there
If you are unsure of the surf conditions ask a lifeguard or lifesaver
Don’t swim directly after a meal
Don’t swim under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Don’t run or dive into the water before checking the conditions
Float with a rip current or undertow, don’t swim against it
If you get into trouble in the water, don’t panic, raise one arm, call for help and float until assistance arrives
BEACH FLAGS
These flags are used by lifeguards when on duty to denote the different areas of the water that are to be used by swimmers and those using surf boards or surf craft:
Red & Yellow Flags indicates a patrolled bathing area
Black & White Flags indicate a surfboard and craft zone, not a safe place to swim
Red Flags indicate that the beach is ‘closed’ and you should not enter the water
