BLAKETOWN BEACH

Grey River Argus, 7 December 1940, Page 3

BLAKETOWN BEACH

Surf Club’s Warning Recent drowning fatalities on the West Coast have increased the work of surf clues, and swimmers can greatly assist by foilowing the instructions given. Although theBlaketown Beach is in excellent order. the rapid changes make it necessary for all using the beach to exercise the utmost vigilance. The Greymouth Surf Life Saving Club warns bathers to bathe only between the red flags on the beach. The Club also draws attention to the following useful hints to’ bathers;— Cl) Don’t bathe directly after meals. (2) Don’t bathe outside the area indicated by flags on the beach. (3) Don’t bathe in quiet secluded spots where uie beach is unattended. 14) Don’t bathe where the water is calm, always choose a spot where the waves are rolling evenly shorewards, Still waters run deep. On entering the water pick out a suitable landmark on the beach, and see that th e cross-currents do not •'arry you away from that point, as unconsciously you may drift into an out-running current. (5) Don’t get excited if caught in th e undertow. Signa) for help byraising your arms in a perpendicular manner, and adopt a floating position, until Ijelp arrives. , (6) Don’t stay in the water feeling cold or numb. Come out immediately, or cramp may be the. result. (7) Don’t struggle if seized with cramp. Signal for help by raismg your arm and maintain a. floating position. Try and keep the affected part still. Cramp alone cannot drown a man. Fear does. (8) Don’t struggle against the current. Swim diagonally across it. (9) Don’t interfere when a rescue, is being -performed by qualified Life Savers, unless requested by one in authority. Keep cool and cairn and by your example help to control others. (10) Don’t interfere with the One reel or belt. It is dangerous. It is always set. Delays are dangerous. (11) Don’t stay in the water when an alarm i s given. Bathers should leave the water, because it gives’the ■Surf Club a fair chance to do their work. (12) Don’t forget what th G Surf Club has told you and carry out the rules.