Summer Safety across Frankston Beaches and Foreshore areas
Published on 24 December 2024
As summer heats up and families head to local beaches and pools, Frankston City Council is reinforcing the importance of water safety for both children and adults.
In January this year we saw drowning rates double to 16 incidents compared to the same period last year, highlighting the urgent need for increased water safety education.
In response, Council has partnered with Peninsula Leisure to deliver free Can Swim community programs this summer at leading aquatic facilities, PARC (Peninsula Aquatic Recreation Centre) and Pines Forest Aquatic Centre.
Frankston City Councillor Emily Green welcomed this initiative saying that it would make vital swimming skills more accessible to families facing financial or social disadvantages.
“Water safety is a crucial life skill that saves lives,” Cr Green said.
“These fully funded programs cater to all needs – from children just learning to swim, to adults with limited swimming abilities.”
“By partnering with Peninsula Leisure, we are placing the safety of our community as a top priority, ensuring no one is left behind.”
The Can Swim programs are tailored to different age groups, incorporating a variety of teaching methods to suit infants as young as 6 months old, children, young adults and families.
Additionally, Frankston Council has increased proactive safety patrols this summer, including our Rapid Response Team which will monitor key locations, such as Frankton’s central precinct and foreshore. Our Beach Patrol beach buggy will be on the move every weekend and public holiday to ensure a safe and welcoming environment for everyone.
Public spaces across Frankston City are alcohol free zones and the consumption of alcohol is prohibited. Variable messaging signs (VMS) have been deployed at Frankston and Seaford beaches this summer advising people of these restrictions. Additional VMS will be deployed in our reserves targeting the illegal use of motorbikes and e-bikes. The VMS are part of the Frankston Community Road Safety Programs, funded by the Department of Transport and Planning and supported by Victoria Police.
Enjoy summer with your pet in Frankston City while following local rules for everyone’s safety. From December 1 to March 31, dogs are prohibited on Frankston or Seaford beaches between 9:30 am and 7:30 pm and must be on-leash outside those times. These restrictions do not include the Keast Park Foreshore Free Roam Area in Seaford. For more details, visit www.frankston.vic.gov.au/freeroam.
“We are committed to creating a safe, family and pet-friendly space to our residents and visitors, and this involves promoting water safety and ensuring the security of our foreshore,” Cr Green said.
The free Can Swim programs are available throughout the summer months. Bookings are essential.
To find out more visit http://www.peninsulaleisure.com.au/can-swim/