Swimming and surfing is part of the Australian way of life. Our country is surrounded by world class beaches, which we flock to no matter what the season. However, it's a potentially dangerous activity claiming many lives each year. Here are some basic tips to help you keep safe in the surf.

Patrolled beaches 

• Only swim between red and yellow flags. These areas have been selected by lifesavers and/or lifeguards because they are the safest parts of the beach. When swimming, make regular checks on the flags to make sure you stay in the flagged area.
• Obey any signs or directions from lifesavers/lifeguards. Signs are there for a reason. The water may appear calm but dangerous rips may lurk beneath the surface. Leave the water if requested (may be by bell, siren, whistle or loudhailer). Possible reasons include sharks, stingers, a rescue in progress or the re-siting of flags.
• Surfers: surf outside the blue flags, which indicate the buffer zone between board riding areas and the swimming area. Be considerate of others in the surf. Make sure your equipment is well-maintained - sharp edges can cause injuries.

Unpatrolled beaches 

• Never swim or surf alone, especially at unfamiliar or unpatrolled beaches.
• Do not swim after dark. You will not be able to see hazards such as rips, or accurately judge the depth or your distance from shore. Your chances of being rescued if you are in trouble are much reduced.

General tips 

• Be aware of your swimming ability. Don't swim too far from shore and don't stay too long.
• Never swim at a beach that is closed. There will be no red and yellow flags but there will be a sign that says 'Beach Closed - Surf Dangerous'.
• Don't swim directly after a meal. Wait at least one hour.
• Do not struggle if you suffer a cramp. Raise your arm for help, float and keep the cramped limb perfectly still.
• Never swim under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Never run and dive into the water. Even if you think you know the area, water conditions can change.
• Beware of rip currents. A rip is a current of water moving out to sea. Signs to look out for include: discoloured water due to sand stirred off the seabed; froth; debris moving out to sea; a rippled area surrounded by areas of calm water. If you are caught in a rip, swim out of it by swimming parallel to the shore until you reach an area of calmer water, then catch a wave to the shore, swim in or signal for assistance. Never swim directly against a rip current.
• If you are in trouble, stay calm and signal for help. Raise one arm to attract attention. Tread water or float until help arrives. Conserve your energy.
• Children: adults should always check the water for depth and currents before allowing children to play there. If in doubt, ask a lifesaver. Watch your children while they are in the water.
• Surfers/bodysurfers: beware of dumping waves, especially at low tide. These are waves that rise and drop suddenly onto shallow water or sandbanks. Spinal injuries are a serious risk in these conditions.