Swim Safe

At Shark Swim School we believe that as well as being able to swim proficiently, to maximize enjoyment in the water, everybody should be aware of the dangers involved when in it. Swimming, whether it is in a pool, lake or ocean, can be enormous fun, but also extremely dangerous when safety is ignored. Drowning is the second most common cause of death among children under 14 years old, and it can happen fast - sometimes in less than 2 minutes after a person's head goes under water.To that end all swimmers, both adults and children should be aware of the following:

At the Beach

Red and yellow flags indicate the area patrolled by lifeguards. These are the safe areas to swim, bodyboard and use inflatables.

Red and yellow flags

Red and yellow flags indicate the area patrolled by lifeguards. These are the safe areas to swim, bodyboard and use inflatables.

Black and white chequered flags

Black and white chequered flags indicate an area zoned by lifeguards for use of watercraft such as surfboards and kayaks. NEVER swim or bodyboard in these areas.
Black and white chequered flags indicate an area zoned by lifeguards for use of watercraft such as surfboards and kayaks. NEVER swim or bodyboard in these areas.
The red flag indicates danger. NEVER enter the water when the red flag is flying, under any circumstances.

Red flag

The red flag indicates danger. NEVER enter the water when the red flag is flying, under any circumstances.

Orange windsock

The orange windsock indicates offshore wind conditions. You should NEVER use an inflatable when the sock is flying.
The orange windsock indicates offshore wind conditions. You should NEVER use an inflatable when the sock is flying.

Open Waters

Open waters such as Rivers and Lakes are not always clear - many have jagged rocks, broken bottles and rubbish at the bottom, which is why it's a good idea to wear water shoes. Also, watch out for weeds and grass, which can trap even a good swimmer. If you panic and try to yank yourself free, you may get even more tangled. Instead, shake and pull your arms and legs slowly to work yourself loose.