SA government adds algal bloom updates to Surf Life Saving app

ABC NEWS (Australia)

As summer approaches, many South Australians will be wondering is it safe to go to the beach. Now they'll be able to get updates on algal bloom conditions via an app. It's part of the government's long awaited summer plan for living with the algal bloom.

Transcript

00:00This surf lifesaving app usually shows information like water temperature and tides.

00:08Now it will also display algal bloom conditions, noting the presence of unusual foam or discoloured

00:15water at 23 beaches, with more regional locations to be added over summer.

00:20That app will be updated frequently. When the summer starts it will be done at least four times a day

00:25across those 23 locations. In the lead up to summer it will be a couple of times a day.

00:29The 23 beaches will also be cleared daily of any dead marine life.

00:34I think we would find it very helpful because it will let us know when it's safe to go out to have some fun or just swim in the beach.

00:44I think it's one of the best things I probably could have done to help with the bloom.

00:47Also this summer the iconic red and yellow flags will take on new significance as surf lifesavers monitor the water for algae.

00:55If you see the red and yellow flags flying it is safe to swim.

00:59Eight city and fleurio beaches to be patrolled seven days a week from the 1st of December until the end of daylight saving.

01:06Patrols will carry portable wash kits and asthma prevention.

01:10The opposition has welcomed extra patrols but is questioning the decision to focus on just eight locations.

01:17Beaches that are significantly frequented by South Australians over the summer and they are not subject to this surf life saving program.

01:25Last year there was an increase in drownings and surf life saving is encouraging families to keep their kids in ocean awareness classes.

01:33We need families to continue to enrol their little people so that we can keep teaching them how to protect themselves.

01:40The costs of these measures will be shared between state and federal governments.

01:44More details of the plan including support for business owners is expected this month.

01:490012 need to be some help to ensure their families stay engaged in ethnicity.

01:510012 need to be explained

01:57among the public sector in that country in the Lyfton park.

Category

Transcript

Be the first to comment

Recommended