ST. CLAIR BEACH.

Evening Star, Issue 19781, 3 February 1928, Page 3

ST. CLAIR BEACH.

TO THE EDITOR. Sir, —After the sad drowning fatality at St. Clair the other day one would think something would have been done to safeguard bathers in the surf in the future. The position, however, is unchanged, and daily the public, or rather one or two of the foolish ones, are risking their lives out there by venturing out too far. Even bathing between the Surf Club’s flags does not eliminate the danger of this, as was fully demonstrated only this evening, when four men beyond the breakers were unable to make headway to the shore, and only prompt action _on the part of the Surf Club with its line brought them safely to mother earth.

As one writer to your paper suggested the other day, a heavy penalty enforced on those who ventured into the danger zone would have great effect, and as far ns [ can see that is about the only thing that would keep these people from so risking their lives. Plenty of them would not risk their L.S.D. so!

Failing this, I sec no reason why there should not bo at least ono small raft moored permanently out beyond the breakers, so that if a swimmer did feel himself being carried out ho could make for the raft and have a fair chance of reaching it and then signalling for help. As things are that unfortunate person has nothing to look hack to but the Pacific Ocean and the “retreating ” beach in front of him, a most unpleasant sensation.

Let us hope, anyway, that something will bo done in thsi line. The St. Clair Beach is wonderful for bathing, and it will he a great pity if it is allowed to get the name of lieing_ dangerous. It is perfectly safe providing a person takes normal precautions.—l am, etc., Observer. February 2.