Scorcher prompts extended beach patrol hours with flags up to 7pm

Beach patrols will be extended today at many northern beaches

THERE will be extra time for a swim today, with temperatures expected to climb into the high 30s along the Illawarra’s northern beaches.

A Severe Fire Danger Rating is in place for City of Wollongong.

Residents should contact triple zero (000) immediately should they detect any fire without a fire truck in attendance.

Meanwhile lifeguards hours for beach patrols will be extended as a result of the heat. Hours at 10 of Wollongong City Council’s 17 patrolled beaches will be increased, with flags up until 7pm.

Wollongong City Council’s Beach Services Manager Paul Dreghorn said today is forecast to be particularly hot and a decision was made decided to provide people with an opportunity to cool off safely in the surf for longer.

“So if you’re fancying a swim after school, work or just when the sun isn’t at its strongest, during the day we encourage everyone to make the most of the additional time,” he said.

“But remember, if there are no flags up, then there is no swim. We want everyone to enjoy our beaches safely.’’

Northern beaches with additional hours are:

Stanwell Park – to 7pm

Austinmer – to 7pm

Thirroul – to 7pm

Bulli – to 7pm

Woonona to 7pm

Corrimal – to 7pm

Fairy Meadow – to 7pm

North Wollongong – to 7pm

For more information visit Council’s website or call (02) 4227 7111.