This blog post was written by Surf Ironwoman Harriet Brown. Follow her on IG here > @harrietbrown.

THIS SUMMER, SWIM BETWEEN THE FLAGS

I love swimming in the ocean. Away from training, I enjoy heading to the beach for a dip with my friends. It’s my favourite place to be over summer.

Whilst there is a darker side to the ocean, the ocean shouldn’t be feared, it should be read and respected. It doesn’t matter how fit, young or competent we are, the ocean doesn’t discriminate. Aussies have a reputation for a laid-back care free attitude. This is a great attitude to have in many situations, but not when it comes to ocean safety. Here are some statistics that may surprise you:

• The average age of people rescued last year was 24

• Alcohol & drugs have contributed to 315 coastal drowning deaths in the last 15 years

• 83% of people rescued last year were Australian

• Males accounted for 80% of drownings last year

• 248 people drowned across Australia last year

Personally, I am very competent in the surf and feel pretty comfortable swimming in most conditions. However, I will swim between the flags this summer for two reasons:

1. When I swim at the beach I don’t usually just wade in up to my knees. I prefer swimming out the back and catching body waves. Unfortunately, I have seen even the most skilful body surfers catch a bomb, be dumped and hit the sand. If anything were to happen to me, I want to be in reach of the best possible care – between the flags.

2. Even if I am just going for a leisurely dip and the surf isn’t rough I will swim between the flags. Why? Because the lifeguards don’t know that I am a competent swimmer. It’s their job to keep an eye out for all swimmers regardless of whether they are swimming between the flags or not. I don’t need them being distracted by trying to keep an eye on me outside of the flags. They will have enough to contend with inside the flags.

Don’t be a summer statistic. It’s pretty simple if you ask me. Swim between the red and yellow flags and enjoy our amazing Aussie coastline.

SOME OTHER HELPFUL TIPS:

• Look out for the safety signs ⚠️

• If in doubt, ask a lifesaver 😎

• If you find yourself in trouble, wave you hand for help 🙋‍♀️

This blog post was written by Harriet Brown. Follow her on IG here > @harrietbrown.