Warning after two beach rescues
LIFESAVERS are frustrated after two rescues in as many days caused by people swimming outside the flags on Gold Coast beaches.
A man in his 50s was rescued at Kirra, given CPR and rushed to Gold Coast Hospital in a critical condition yesterday after swimming outside the flags.
The day before, a 72-year-old tourist was sucked into a rip and needed CPR before being taken to Tweed Hospital in a serious condition.
SLSQ Gold Coast lifesaving services coordinator Stuart Hogben has warned people to follow the direction of lifesavers or lifeguards on the beach.
"The conditions along the coast could become extremely hazardous and we don't want people to put themselves at risk by swimming in dangerous unpatrolled locations," he said.
"We encourage people to take the greatest care at all times."
Tips to stay safe:
- Swim only between the red and yellow flags and during patrol hours - do not enter the water if a beach is closed or unpatrolled
- Follow any direction issued by lifesavers or lifeguards
- Obey any signage that has been displayed
- Avoid entering the water until it is deemed safe to do so
- Stay away from rock ledges and shelves
- Avoid near shore boating, fishing or rock fishing.
