WITH the fourth and final session of this year’s West Coast zone abalone fishing season to go ahead tomorrow, surf lifesavers are bracing for what they expect to be another busy hour of fishing to wrap up the season.
Surf Life Saving WA (SSLS WA) lifesaving services manager Cam Robbins said during the one-hour fishing session on February 1, surf lifesavers had carried out 55 rescues, with the bulk of them in the Yanchep zone.
Over the past three sessions, lifesavers have performed 108 rescues, already more than last season’s total of 101.
“This equates to a potential 36 lives saved per one-hour of fishing,” he said.
“To be honest, it’s amazing we haven’t seen any loss of life this season so far.
“Without a doubt, this is thanks to the service of our volunteer lifesavers patrolling these zones.’’
Surf Life Saving WA said while a medium risk was forecast for Saturday’s session, it did not mean that conditions at each location would be the same as the previous medium-rated sessions and those with little to no swimming capabilities were at significant risk of drowning or sustaining considerable injury.
“Unfortunately, if the past three sessions are anything to go by, we are going to continue to see people making decisions that put themselves at risk.
Surf Life Saving’s message is simple: Stop, look and stay alive.
“You need to stop and assess the risk and condition at that location on that day”, said Mr Robbins.
“Just because you fished at Yanchep last time doesn’t mean the conditions will suit your abilities this week,’’ he said.
“Help us keep you safe by making responsible decisions about your safety and turning up with the correct gear.’’
So far this abalone season, lifesavers have performed 108 rescues and 2737 preventative actions and administered 63 first aid treatments.
Areas where Surf Life Saving WA will deliver safety services including Jet Ski, inflatable rescue boat and beach-based patrols include Yanchep Lagoon, Fisherman’s Hollow and Mindarie.
