Beaches busy as lifesavers sound safety warning

With temperatures exceeding 40C this week, Geraldton’s beaches are busier than ever with people looking to make the most of the red hot conditions. But the increase in beachgoers has not led to any bad incidents, according to local surf lifesaving clubs. Warnings have been sounded from clubs Statewide, urging people to take precautions at the beach as preventable drowning deaths doubled over the past year. In Geraldton, clubs say there have been no major incidents this summer despite a huge increase in the number of beachgoers. Champion Bay Surf Life Saving Club president Peter Nelson said while the conditions at Champion Bay had been ideal, it was important people remained smart in the water. “We’ve only had a few minor issues here and are seeing great results from preventative actions like approaching people before they get in trouble,” he said. “We’re probably up to 20 per cent more people visiting the beach this summer but that hasn’t change our rescue numbers.” “Our main message is to play it safe in the water, survey the conditions and act accordingly.” On the other side of town, Geraldton Surf Life Saving Club president Sally McKenzie said members had not seen any major incidents this summer. “There’s lots of people down here these days making use of their new Christmas toys,” she said. “We’ve definitely seen a huge increase in beach attendance.” Surf Life Saving WA general manager Chris Peck said 14 people had drowned in WA waters last year, a 100 per cent increase on the previous year. “All too often, people overestimate their abilities and underestimate the conditions, and it can only take seconds for someone to be caught up in a rip and swept out to sea,” he said. “That’s why we continue to remind people to swim between the red and yellow flags.” Yesterday, the mercury reached 38.9C about 12.30pm and Geraldton’s beaches were packed. The forecast for tomorrow is 40C before things cool off to the low to mid 30s for the weekend.