It is as easy to remain safe on Australian beaches as to obey certain basic rules. Here are our recommendations to enjoy the ocean. Australia is known for its beautiful coastline and unspoiled beaches. Like any beach activity there is an amount of risk, like strong currents, stingy stuff and sunburn, but with good planning and a conscientious attitude to water safety, you will have a wonderful time on Australia’s beaches.
Where To Swim?
Wherever possible, at patrolled beaches always swim or surf. Traveling across Australia you can find that there are many beaches that are not patrolled, some of which are rugged, remote coastal parts. Although many of these remote spots are stunning, it might take longer for help to arrive if you were to get into trouble.
There is low reception of cell phones in some places. Don’t swim alone, especially if you’re not a good swimmer. Although you know your limits when you’re a strong swimmer, surfing can be very challenging and conditions can change rapidly. Even if it appears deep enough, never dive into it. Sandbars can happen anytime, and they are difficult to spot. Lifeguards treat about as many spinal injuries as drowning.
Currents
Most Australian beaches have rips, strong waves that can pull a swimmer into the sea. Rips may function in a variety of ways, affected by morphology, swell, tides, and other factors. Don’t panic if you’re caught in a rip.
A rip can flow back into the sea against the ocean, so if you swim in the breaking waves parallel to the beach, you can often swim out of it after just a few meters.
Box Jellyfish
Stingers are found mainly in Australian beaches and as far south as the Whitsunday Islands in Queensland, including Irukandji and box jellyfish. Nevertheless, their numbers increase between November and May, they are found throughout the year. Irukandjis are tiny and translucent which makes them difficult to see in the mud. Their sting creates localized discomfort, disorientation, and more breathing discomfort. Box jellyfish are larger than Irukandjis and it is confirmed that their sting is more intense, causing visible wounds. Once you are stung by an Irukandji or a jellyfish shell, it is crucial to get immediate first aid.
Use vinegar to rinse the region and remove the tentacles gently with tweezers. Inform and comfort the patient. If required, perform CPR before medical assistance arrives. Many beaches are closed for these species in northern Australia during the peak period from November to May, yet another clear reason for reading signs on beaches. If you’re on an unpatrolled beach and stung by anything you think could be deadly, dial 000 for emergency help. You will then be directed by the operator as to the correct first aid or care method.
Sunburn
When an Australian summer is going to do wonders for your skin, many travelers ignore the Australian sun’s harshness. Please re-apply sunscreen after you’ve been in the pool or sweating.
During the hottest part of the day, it is important to cover up and protect your skin from UV rays. Wherever possible, try shade and always remain hydrated. Sunburn is uncomfortable and, depending on the severity, can take days or weeks to go away.
Conclusion
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