SYDNEY, Jan 26 (NNN-AGENCIES) – Beach lovers were warned to keep safe in the sea, as heatwave continued to sweep the states in east Australia.
Beaches along the east coast were crowded with swimmers, surfers and sunbathers, as temperatures hit 40 degrees Celsius in some parts of Sydney, and 35 degrees on the coast. The Bureau of Meteorology also warned about severe heatwave conditions, in isolated areas of inland Queensland and northern New South Wales (NSW) until tomorrow.
NSW Police and Emergency Service said today that, since Friday, there have been four drowning deaths and a record-breaking 303 rescues performed by lifesavers, 1,200 first aids and 15,560 preventative actions.
“I want to issue an urgent warning to anyone wanting to escape the heatwave at our beaches, despite the efforts of lifesavers, careless behaviour in the water and irresponsible rock fishing will lead to drowning,” NSW Minister for Police and Emergency Services, David Elliott, said.
“I hope everyone celebrating Australia Day on NSW’s iconic beaches to take extra care, listen to any warnings and avoid taking any avoidable risks.”
Surf Life Saving NSW CEO, Steve Pearce, also encouraged people going to beaches to download relevant app, to keep updated on the latest safety advice and shape travel plan beforehand.– NNN-AGENCIES
