Lifeguards warn beachgoers

As the South West swelters through days of hot weather and crowds flock to beaches to cool off, surf lifeguards are reminding beach-goers to stay safe.

Lifeguards are also warning of an increased number of shark sightings at Bunbury beaches, but say if people heed warnings and safety messages they will be safe in the water.

Dalyellup Surf Life Saving Club co-director Tayla Hadden said lifeguards were seeing more people at the beach, not only on weekends but on weekday evenings.

She said while the club only patrolled Dalyellup Beach on weekends, lifeguards were also training three nights a week and remained vigilant at those times.

She also said sharks appeared to be coming closer to shore, following a spate of unconfirmed sightings.

"We are always keeping an eye out for them from the beach and sky," she said.

"We have the inflatable rescue boat in the water every Sunday to make sure the public and members of the surf club are safe whilst enjoying the beach."

The club has already completed six preventative actions, one rescue and one first aid for a suspected fractured ankle this year.

Club president Jenaya Bell said as well as watching for warning flags, checking weather reports and identifying rips, beach-goers should embrace the slip, slop, slap, slide and seek message.

"This message will continue to be important to us and to the lifesaving movement for decades to come," she said.

"It is a campaign that has played a key role in creating sun protection attitudes and behaviours for Australians."

Mrs Bell said lifeguards were also picking up a lot of fishing line, hooks, glass bottles and general rubbish at the beach.

"It is a campaign that has played a key role in creating sun protection attitudes and behaviours for Australians." - Jenaya Bell