The NSW Police Force’s Marine Area Command (MAC), headed by Superintendent Joseph McNulty, has issued a crucial safety message aimed at Filipino-Australians and other multicultural communities in NSW. This initiative comes in light of the growing concerns over rock fishing incidents along the state’s extensive coastline.
The MAC, responsible for policing and ensuring safety along the NSW coastline and 200 nautical miles into the sea, has identified the summer season as a critical period for water-related incidents, especially rock fishing.
Why Is This Important?
During summer, many people enjoy rock fishing along our coast. But it can be dangerous:
- Last year, 13 people died while rock fishing in NSW. 9 of them didn’t have life jackets.
- Rock fishing accidents make up 4% of all drowning deaths in Australia.
- 60% of these accidents involve people born overseas.
Given these alarming figures, the NSW Police Force emphasizes several key safety messages for those engaging in rock fishing.
Top Safety Tips for Rock Fishing
- Wear a Life Jacket: This can save your life.
- Watch the Water: Never turn your back on the sea, as waves can surprise you.
- Call for Help: If someone falls in, don’t jump after them. Instead, contact emergency services by calling 000 for help.
Other Water Safety Tips
- Swim in safe areas, between the flags on patrolled beaches.
- If you can’t swim well, it’s better to stay out of the water.
This safety campaign is part of the NSW Police Force’s ongoing effort to reduce water-related accidents and fatalities, especially in the Filipino-Australian community and other multicultural groups within the state.
Learn More
For more about the Marine Area Command and safety on the water, check out the Marine Area Command – NSW Police Public Site.
