Your safety IN the water can't just be left to our Surf Lifesavers. Although they do a fantastic job, a little basic knowledge will help relieve the pressures placed on these volunteers.......Tips for safety in the water

Your safety ON the water can't just be left to our Volunteer Coast Guard so we urge you to know the rules.......Safety ON the water

Mosquitos (Mozzies) just love water, especially around dawn and dusk, and you could find yourself giving an unauthorised blood donation that can make you sick......How to deter nasty little biters

And don't forget to SLIP-SLOP-SLAP-WRAP!
SLIP on a shirt, SLOP on some sunscreen, SLAP on a hat and WRAP on some sunnies!

1. Always swim between the flags at patrolled beaches.
2. Swim where the lifeguard or lifesaver is on patrol.
3. Read and obey all surf safety signs.
4. Ask the lifeguard what the conditions are like if you are unsure.
5. Don't swim directly after a meal.
6. Never swim under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
7. Never run and dive in the water, even if you have checked before, water conditions change.
8. If you do get into trouble, don't panic, float, signal for help and wait for assistance.
9. Float with a current or undertow, stay calm, don't swim against it. Signal help.
10. Respect your abilities in the water

More information about Surf Lifesaving is HERE

Beware of mozzies, they can spread diseases such as Ross River Virus and Barmah Forest virus.

What is Ross River Virus and Barmah Forest Virus?

These illnesses are similar and are passed to humans from infected mosquitoes; they are not spread from person to person. Symptoms include flu like symptoms, such as fever, headache and aches and pains in muscles and joints. Sometimes a rash appears on the body arms and legs. The symptoms usually develop about 1 week after being bitten by an infected mosquito. Complete recovery usually occurs within a couple of weeks but on rare occasions symptoms can persist for months. Infection results in immunity to further episodes of infection.

Mozzies are particularly active at dawn and dusk so you should take particular care at these times during the day to protect yourself from mozzies bites

• Use an effective repellent on exposed skin areas
• Cover up as much as possible with loose fitting clothing, mossies can bite through tight fitting clothes
• Use mosquito coils or vaporising mats
• Ensure screens on windows and doors are kept closed and are in good condition
• If camping use a mozzie net and ensure your tent is screened
• Use a knockdown insecticide in bedrooms half an hour before going to bed

For further Information contact Northern Rivers Public Health Unit on 02 6620 7500 or the public health unit nearest you.

1. Check for petrol and/or LP gas odours
2. Inspect the bilges.
3. Check fuel, engine oil and coolant levels. Examine batteries, terminals etc.
4. Check that fire extinguisher is in good condition.
5. Ensure there is sufficient fresh water and food for the length of the voyage with some extra in case of an emergency.
6. Make sure your lights are in working order even if it is a daylight outing
7. Fuel should be fresh.....not last season's fuel
8. Self-draining holes should be clear.
9. Ropes and lines should be in good condition and stored ready for use.
10. Steering cables and connections must be in good condition and work perfectly.
11. Inspect the battery and renew regularly.
12. Check that appropriate anchors are on board and are properly rigged, stowed and ready for use.
13. One personal flotation device (PFD - aka lifejacket) should be available for each person on board.
14. Children should have suitably-sized PFDs (aka lifejacket).
15. Marine Radio should be on and working.
16. Have up-to-date charts showing ports of refuge along your route.
17. A complete First Aid Kit.
18. Essential tools and spare parts should be in good condition.
19. Keep a sharp knife in a handy place.
20. Strobe light and danbuoy for rescue purposes.
21. Whistle, mirror, marker dye, kite or helium balloon for emergency signalling.
22. Do not overload your vessel.
23. Ensure everyone on board knows where to find, and how to use, essential safety equipment
24. Don't forget the bung.

Complete details and licencing requirements can be found on the Waterways Website.