Beach & water safety
We’re proud of having Australia’s largest professional lifeguard service to protect our beaches and promote surf safety message throughout our schools and community.For more about our Lifeguard Service call (07) 5581 6172.
For the safety of swimmers, the Queensland Department of Primary Industries has also implemented a shark control program along our Gold Coast beaches.
For safe beachgoing
Larry the Lifeguard says NEVER
- Swim alone or surf at beaches not patrolled by Lifeguards or Lifesavers
- Bathe outside the red and yellow flags that mark safe swimming areas
- Bathe directly after a meal or under the influence of alcohol
- Bathe when the beach is closed. (Observe the sign "Danger- Reserve closed to bathing" and the red flag)
- Bathe when there are no safety flags
- Panic if caught in a current or undertow, but raise one arm straight up and float until help arrives
- Struggle if seized with a cramp, but raise one arm for help, float and keep the affected part of the body still
- Go out far when a yellow flag is flying- it means the surf is dangerous
- Bathe if unsure of safe conditions, but seek advice of the nearest Lifeguard
- Struggle against a rip or current, but swim diagonally across it
Flags and signage
The golden rule for swimmers is:
- Always swim between the red & yellow flag on patrolled beaches
- Always read the Flags and Safety Signs and understand what they mean before entering the water
It is important to read the Flags and Safety Signs and understand what they mean before entering the water.
Red and Yellow
Flag (Safety)
Bathe between the Red and Yellow Flags
Red Flags
Dangerous conditions - do not enter the water
Yellow Flags (Caution)
Swim with caution
Swimming Prohibited
Surfboard Riding Only
