THE Federal Government has recognised the importance of swimming skills for primary aged children, but Surf Life Saving NSW is urging politicians and educators not to neglect beach safety.
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Port Macquarie Surf School owner and ocean expert Wayne Hudson, who was a state swimmer as a child as well as a recognised surfer, said swimming in the ocean is vastly different to swimming in a pool.
"It is really important to educate children on swimming in the ocean," he said.
"It's similar strokes but there are variations. When kids get in the beach they need to learn to change their strokes depending on conditions.
"Being able to swim is number one but reading the ocean is second. They need to know how to spot a rip, read the currents, the sand banks and that sort of thing."
The Sport 2030 report by the state government outlines the need for all kids to have access to swimming and water safety education through a learn to swim program.
However, Surf Life Saving NSW CEO Steven Pearce said being able to swim 25 metres in an indoor heated pool is very different to having the skills to be able to survive in the surf.
“Unfortunately we continue to see people drowning on NSW beaches who can swim, but have no idea of the specific hazards present in our coastal environments," he said.
The most at-risk group of drowning on NSW beaches are males aged in the 15-34 bracket.
For this reason a huge focus for surf lifesavers is working with schools and community-based programs to help educate young people about surf safety, before they reach this at-risk age group.
The iconic Nippers program - run by surf clubs everywhere - is a great way to teach kids how to stay safe in the surf.
Mr Hudson said he would gladly jump on board any initiative to teach kids ocean safety on top of general swimming education.
"I'd be more than happy to lend my expertise if a program was initiated," he said.
"We run a lot of surf awareness and safety programs with the schools we have on board, focusing on learning to read the ocean, the international distress signal and how to get out of, and avoid, dangerous situations."
Beach Safety Tips
- Always swim between the red and yellow patrol flags, for your nearest patrolled beach check the BeachSafe app or website
- Read the safety signs for information about the beach and ask a lifesaver or lifeguard for safety information
- Always swim with someone else so you can look out for each other, and always supervise children around the water
- Never swim under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- If you need help in the water, stay calm and attract attention by raising one arm
- In an emergency, dial Triple Zero Police
- Don’t forget to be sun safe by remembering to: Slip on some protective clothing, Slop on some sunscreen, Slap on a hat, Slide on a pair of sunglasses, Seek some shade and Sip on lots of water to stay hydrated.
- For information about patrol times, weather, and beach locations visit the Beachsafe Website