STAY TOGETHER

Risks of getting lost at the beach can be high due to factors such as getting pulled out to sea, the similarities of the setting, water currents and wind affecting movement along the beach without realising.

 

Knowledge, preparation and keeping the group together are key factors in keeping people safe at the beach.

HOW TO AVOID GETTING LOST:

  • Orient – take time to identify landmarks or notable places at the beach which will guide members of the group back to where the beach camp is
  • Detail – be aware of clothing, age and information about group members to help with identification, should they go missing
  • Boundaries – encourage the group to stay within certain areas of or markers on the beach
  • Plan – organise a meeting point so that in the event of any of the group going missing, they will know to make their way to the meeting point where other group members can find them
  • Visibility – make sure there is something members of the group can easily see from a distance that will guide them back to camp such as a bright umbrella, beach tent or flag
  • Supervise – children within the group at all times and never allow them to play at the water’s edge or go into the water alone
  • Contact – carry mobile devices within the group for connection and communication with others

WHAT TO DO IF YOU ARE LOST:

  • Always get to a place of safety, lifeguard stations and police are good choices. It is essential to teach children from an early age to make their way to these safe places in the event of getting lost where they can be cared for while arrangements are made for their safe reuniting with the group

WHAT TO DO IF SOMEONE FROM THE GROUP IS MISSING:

  • Utilise the plan – send one member of the group to the agreed meeting point to look for the missing person
  • Seek help – inform the lifeguards and police of the missing person including details of how long they have been missing for plus a description of them, their age and clothing
  • Stay in contact – those searching for the missing member should inform other members of the group of their whereabouts and if the missing person has been found
  • Don’t panic – this can cause chaos and be unhelpful. Do not make a missing child’s name public knowledge due to assuming the worst, as it could be used by undesirables to gain the child’s trust
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