Helicopter patrols givebeachgoers a summer safety boost

Surf Life Saving WA’s services kicked up a gear on Monday with daily patrols of Westpac’s Busselton-based rescue helicopter.

The helicopter will patrol Capes beaches daily until February 3 next year.

SLSWA general manager Chris Peck said warmer weather and the approaching school holidays meant more people were at the beach.

“The helicopter’s ability to cover large areas in a relatively short period of time and to spot potential danger from marine life and conditions such as rips, makes them an extremely important surveillance tool for our lifesavers in keeping the community safe,” he said.

“It really is able to deliver a service that other resources cannot.”

SLSWA services also started on Monday at Meelup and Bunker Bay and will patrol those beaches until February 3.

To find when and where lifesavers are patrolling, visit mybeach.com.au/my-beach.