Port Macquarie head lifeguard James Turnham said that the best thing people can do before getting in the water is to get familiar with the beach they will be swimming at.

“As always our main message for people is to swim at a patrolled beach and between the flags, but also for people to know their abilities and only swim to a level they are confident at.

“Especially during the holidays, people may be travelling and come to a beach they are unfamiliar with, so they need to take the time to ensure they will be safe in the water and know if there are rocks or where the currents are,” Mr Turnham said.

Mr Turnham also said that for families wanting to spend a day at the beach they should make sure they stay sun smart.

“If you are going to spend the day at the beach make sure you have sunscreen on, a hat and rash shirt – especially for children – and stay hydrated.

“Children must always be supervised by a responsible adult at the beach and people should never swim with out telling someone where they are going,” he said.

Read more: How to spot a rip

Mr Turnham said surfers should also follow the rules and not bring surfboards between the flags.

“The rule is no boards with fin – so surfboards and in particular fiberglass boards – between the flags.”

This continued reminder by lifeguards and lifesavers comes after a number of close calls at unpatrolled beaches in the Port Macquarie Hastings region.

“We strongly advise people to pick beaches that have lifeguards and lifesavers patrolling them because if people get into trouble at a beach not patrolled it can take up to 20 minutes for help to arrive.”

If you see someone in trouble at an unpatrolled beach call 000 immediately.