Qld: Warning on night swimming

AAP General News (Australia)
12-30-2000
Qld: Warning on night swimming

Queensland surf lifesavers will have rescue helicopters on emergency stand-by in case
New Year's revellers taking late night dips get into trouble.

Surf Life Saving Queensland spokesman GEORGE HILL says lifesavers are worried about
the combination of alcohol and the public indulging in a night time surf.

He says the Westpac Lifesaver helicopters will be on emergency stand-by, but there
will be no volunteer beach patrols at night.

Mr HILL says night swimmers can't see rip currents, sand banks or large crashing waves
and they will be taken by surprise.

Volunteer beach patrols will start at 7am (AEST) on New Year's Day on the Gold Coast,
8am (AEST) on the Sunshine Coast and 9am (AEST) elsewhere in the state.

The season has already seen fatalities and lifesavers are keen to prevent any further
serious incidents.

AAP RTV pjo/hn

KEYWORD: EVE SURF (BRISBANE)

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