A man has been transported to hospital in a critical condition after being pulled unconscious from the water at unpatrolled beach near Port Kembla in the Illawarra on Sunday. 


The 33-year-old man was swimming at Mm Beach at around 1pm when he got into distress approximately 50 metres offshore.



He was pulled from the water by a member of the public as emergency services raced to the scene to assist in administering treatment.



After intense CPR he was then transferred to hospital where he remains in a critical condition.



“This incident highlights the importance of swimming at a patrolled location. Fortunately the member of the public has had the presence of mind to rescue the man, commence CPR, and alert authorities to at least give the patient a chance,” said SLSNSW CEO Steven Pearce.



“We are all hoping for a good outcome in this instance and with the hot weather likely to continue into next week would like to strongly reiterate our safety messages of swimming at a patrolled location, and really taking the time to assess the conditions,” he said.



Meanwhile at Bulli Beach in another rescue of a swimmer, lifesavers and members of the public worked quickly to perform a rapid response just before 4pm.



wo men aged in their 20s got into difficulty in the surf and upon seeing the pair struggling, three beachgoers went to their aid before the group was plucked out of the water on a rescue board and the IRB.



One young man was later transported to hospital for observation after taking on a significant amount of water during the incident.



Beach Safety Tips




  • Always swim between the red and yellow patrol flags, for your nearest patrolled beach check the BeachSafe app or website

  • Read the safety signs for information about the beach and ask a lifesaver or lifeguard for safety information

  • Always swim with someone else so you can look out for each other, and always supervise children around the water

  • Never swim under the influence of alcohol or drugs

  • If you need help in the water, stay calm and attract attention by raising one arm

  • In an emergency, dial Triple Zero Police

  • Don’t forget to be sun safe by remembering to: Slip on some protective clothing, Slop on some sunscreen, Slap on a hat, Slide on a pair of sunglasses, Seek some shade and Sip on lots of water to stay hydrated.

  • For information about patrol times, weather, and beach locations visit the Beachsafe Website or Download the App.



 



Sunday 7 January 2018



 



 


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