National Emergency Magazine Vol. 4 2014

Note: In Australia the sunlight
is so strong that even when
you are using a SPF highrated
sunscreen, you will still
develop a tan.
Where possible avoid
strenuous exercise during hot
weather.
In the 30 minutes before
exercise in the heat, drink at
least half a litre of water.
During normal activities
maintain adequate fluid
intake (non-alcohol, noncaffeine).
Beaches - Frequently
Asked Questions
Q: Where is the safest place
to swim at beaches?
A: Some beaches display
red and yellow flags, which
mark the safest part of the
beach to swim. They also mark
the area constantly under
surveillance by lifesavers/
lifeguards. Download the map
of South Australia's patrolled
beaches here.
Q: What are the conditions
like?
A: If you have a question
when at a patrolled beach,
do not hesitate to ask the
lifesaver/lifeguard. They are
trained to help you.
Q: What is a rip?
A: A rip is seaward-moving
water current. After waves
have broken and run to the
shore, the accumulated water
then moves away from the
shore through a pathway of
least resistance - usually the
deepest point. This moving
pathway is called a rip. For
more information go to www.
ripcurrents.com.au
Q: Where do rips occur?
A: Rips occur along almost
all stretches of beach and in
and around rocks, breakwalls
or any permanent fixture in
the ocean. The larger the
waves, the stronger and
larger the rips. Most seawardrunning
rips normally end not
far beyond the level of the
breaking waves.
Q: What do I do if I get
caught in a rip?
A: Side currents can cause
people to be washed off
safe swimming areas where
waves break on sandbars.
Staying calm is essential. Not
swimming directly against the
rip is important and strong
swimmers only should swim at
an angle across the rip.
At patrolled beaches it is
best to request assistance
by raising a straight arm and
calling out for help. Floating
and conserving energy is
important until help arrives.
Struggling against a rip is a
quick way to exhaustion and
a step closer to panic and
tragedy.