Australian beaches are among the world's most beautiful and enticing attractions. There are over 10,000 beaches around Australia that stretches for some 25,760 kilometers (16,000 miles).
But consider: deaths have occurred on Australian beaches, numerous instances of which are of visitors to Australian shores.
When visiting Australian beaches, safety should be of primary consideration to help ensure a worry-free holiday to Australia.
The first rule of beach safety is: Swim between the flags.
The flags are red and yellow (image on the left) which you will find on Australia's most popular beaches. These areas are under constant surveillance by lifesavers and also indicate which stretch of water is safe to swim in.
Some dangers you may face outside these "flagged" areas are submerged rocks, irregular water depths, and rips (underwater currents). If you find yourself caught in a rip, remember to swim across it rather than against it.
Swim or surf at places patrolled by surf lifesavers or lifeguards.
Of course, there are beaches where no surf lifesavers are present and the water entices you to take a dip.
See if there are signs on the beach. They may warn of hidden dangers (such as the presence of poisonous jellyfish in northern Australia).
If there are no warning signs and you want to swim in an unpatrolled area, swim with someone else and avoid areas close to rocks.
