Victorians love visiting the beach in summer but this year will be a little different to others as Victoria reopens and more people than ever leave home to spend time outdoors.
For a smooth trip, plan where you are going before you head off and check the VicEmergency app for beach closures.
Use the Beachsafe app for information on where to find patrolled beaches, local weather forecasts, and alternative options if your first choice is crowded.
Look for patrolled beaches and swim between the red and yellow flags wherever possible. This means the beach is patrolled by lifeguards and they have marked the safest place to swim. Life Saving Victoria patrols run on weekends and public holidays until Sunday 18 April 2021 (Easter Sunday).
Know your own capabilities in the water - when was the last time you went swimming? Ensure you take extra care when returning to the water this year and make an emergency plan, including how to get help if you need it.
Read beach safety signs when you arrive and observe the conditions before entering the water. Ask the lifeguards on patrol for advice if you’re unsure.
Supervise children closely around water and always swim with a friend.
Water safety information for multicultural communities is available and beach safety information is also available in languages other than English.
To stay COVIDSafe at the beach, stay 1.5 metres apart from people not in your group and wear a mask if you can’t.
Don’t go out if you feel unwell. Get tested as quickly as possible and isolate until you get a negative result. For more information visit coronavirus.vic.gov.au
Updated