Beach patrols start for summer

Beach patrol season was officially opened on Umina and Ocean Beaches with the raising of the red and yellow flags on Saturday, September 23.

The season will continue until Monday, April 30, next year.

The patrol hours will be 9am to 5pm.

The patrol will be extended by one hour morning and evening at Umina Beach during the summer peak holiday period, from Saturday, December 16, until Tuesday, January 30, when the beach will be patrolled from 8am to 6pm.

Professional lifeguards employed by Central Coast Council patrol the beaches Monday to Friday, while Surf Life Saving volunteers patrol the beaches on weekends and public holidays.

Central Coast Council group leader Ms Julie Vaughan said the Council and Surf Life Saving worked together to keep the beaches safe over the summer beach season.

"We have a dedicated team of volunteers and Council lifeguards that keep our beaches safe," said Ms Vaughan.

"Together they provide a search and rescue service for our coastal waters as well as emergency medical care when required.

"They also educate the public in beach and water safety."

She asked that beach-goers follow their direction and obey the beach safety signs.

Swimmers should stay within the red and yellow flags, watch out for fellow swimmers, read the signs and remain safe while swimming," she said.

SOURCE:

Media release, 19 Sep 2017

Julie Vaughan, Central Coast Council