Beach Safety: Beachsafe is an online beach safety portal for all Australians and visitors to our shores proudly presented by Surf Life Saving Australia and partners / Waves

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Beach Safety: Beachsafe is an online beach safety portal for all Australians and visitors to our shores proudly presented by Surf Life Saving Australia and partners Visiting the beach Beaches near me Rips at the Beach Rock fishing First Aid Info Resources

There are three different types of waves found that swimmers need to be aware of to ensure they enjoy the beach more safely.

SURGING WAVES
Surging waves may never actually break as they approach the water’s edge, as the water below them is very deep. These waves are very dangerous as they can knock swimmers over and drag them back into deep water.

SPILLING WAVES
Spilling waves usually have less force and are the safest for body surfi ng. They are usually found in sheltered bays where the sea floor slopes gradually and near sandbanks at high tide.

PLUNGING OR DUMPING WAVES
These waves break suddenly and can throw you to the bottom with great force. Plunging or dumping waves also cause rip currents to form. These waves usually occur at low tide and where sandbanks are shallow and can cause injuries to swimmers, particularly spinal and head injuries. Never try and bodysurf on a dumping wave!

http://beachsafe.org.au/Safety_Info/Waves

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For more information on
any other matter relating to
aquatic safety, contact:

Surf Life Saving Australia
02.9300.4000 or 
slsa.com.au

Surf Life Saving NSW
(02) 9984 7188 or 
surflifesaving.com.au

Surf Life Saving QLD
(07) 3846 8000 or 
lifesaving.com.au

Life Saving Victoria
(03) 9676 6900 or 
lifesavingvictoria.com.au

Surf Life Saving SA
(08) 8354 6900 or 
surfrescue.com.au

Surf Life Saving WA
(08) 9243 9444 or 
mybeach.com.au

Surf Life Saving TAS
(03) 6223 5555 or 
slst.asn.au

Surf Life Saving NT
(08) 8985 6588 or 
lifesavingnt.com.au

... or contact your local 
surf life saving club.