Despite predictions of possible ‘unsettled weather’ across parts of coastal NSW to end 2024, volunteer lifesavers and lifeguards are remaining vigilant ahead of what has traditionally proven one of the most challenging and dangerous times of the year.
New Years is a high-risk period for coastal incidents and drownings – three times more likely than on any other day – and Surf Life Saving NSW is reminding people to heed safety warnings around alcohol and swimming or boating, and swimming at unpatrolled locations, where the vast bulk of tragedies occur this time of year.
Revellers are encouraged to avoid swimming at night, outside of patrol hours and in remote locations if celebrating the occasion at the beach, and reminded that recreational drugs, alcohol and the ocean can be a deadly combination.
Despite some regions, particularly up north, forecast for rain over the coming days, with warm temperatures in the mid-to-late 20s expected across the state, Surf Life Saving NSW still expects to see large numbers of beachgoers along our coastline.
Additionally, some storm activity is expected to develop tomorrow (New Years Eve) where Sydney metro can expect possible showers and storms, according to the Bureau of Meteorology.
In Sydney’s West, where Surf Life Saving NSW lifeguards are positioned at Penrith Beach and Lake Parramatta, temperatures across the week could climb as high as 40 degrees. Lifeguards are on high alert in those areas with potential for increased visitation.
NSW averages six (6) coastal drowning deaths during the month of December over the past five years.
Unsettlingly, that monthly average was almost met in the last 10 days alone, with five coastal drownings since 20 December. Volunteers are fearful that the number will climb should the public not take caution this week.
In all, 41% of the coastal drownings since 1 July 2024 have occurred in the month of December.
“The New Year period has always been one of the busiest on our beaches, and we are preparing for another busy period as we ring in 2025,” said Surf Life Saving NSW CEO, Steve Pearce.
Since 1 December, volunteer surf lifesavers have performed 718 rescues, 2,648 first aids and a staggering 186,161 preventative actions. Further, since Christmas Day alone lifesavers have performed almost 400 rescues, 1,261 first aids and nearly 70,000 preventative actions.
On the first aid treatments specifically, that figure is a spike of 50% on the figure for the same period last year (1,774).
Rescue Services teams across the state will be fully operational during the New Year festivities conducting surveillance patrols late into the evening along the coast and assisting other emergency services.
“We’re just really urging potential beachgoers to take heed of those basic safety messages; don’t swim at unpatrolled locations – look for the red and yellow flags because if our lifesavers can’t see you they can’t save you, and understand your limits when entering the ocean,” Steve added.
“Please remember to Stop, Look, and Stay Alive this New Year.”
Monday 30 December 2024