Knights Beach, Port Elliot

HEALTH AND SAFETY ACROSS THE FLEURIEU

In an emergency, call triple zero (000) for ambulance, fire or police assistance throughout Australia. From mobile phones, call 112. For non-emergency police attendance, call 131 444.

Stay up to date on the latest health advice and information regarding COVID-19.

For up-to-date information about bushfire warnings, advice, and restrictions please visit the Country Fire Service.

During the summer months, the spectacular coastline has several patrolled beaches across the Fleurieu Peninsula. These include Aldinga, Christies Beach, Port Noarlunga, Southport, Normanville, Chiton Rocks, Horseshoe Bay, and Goolwa

Hospital services are available at the Victor Harbor Hospital and Flinders Medical Centre. Please call triple zero (000) if it is an emergency. 

Health and safety

BUSHFIRE INFORMATION

A bushfire danger period exists between November and April each year in the Fleurieu Peninsula. This can be extended, depending on the weather conditions.
During fire danger periods, there are fire restrictions that apply. These include total fire ban days. For up-to-date details about fire bans and fire safety information, visit the Country Fire Service website or telephone 1300 362 361.

 

BEACH SAFETY

For your safety, surf lifesavers patrol many beaches throughout the Fleurieu Peninsula. If you go to the beach, only swim between the red and yellow Surf Life Saving flags.

Be safe and have fun at the beach by remembering the acronym FLAGS:

  • Find the red and yellow flags and swim between them
  • look at, understand and obey the safety signs
  • Get a friend to swim with you tick your hand up
  • Stick your hand up and stay calm, and call for help if you get into trouble

Additionally, you should follow these behaviours to remain safe:

  • Only swim according to your experience and never underestimate the risks of swimming at the beach

  • Conserve energy by floating on your back and staying calm if you’re in trouble

  • Don't swim under the influence of alcohol or drugs

  • Always check the depth of the water

  • Never run or dive into the water. Even if you have checked the depth, water conditions can change

  • Keep out of dunes and fenced areas Only swim at beaches with patrolling lifesavers or lifeguards

  • Swim between the red and yellow flags - this is the area that surf lifesavers are watching and can respond to quicker than other areas

  • If there are NO FLAGS, DO NOT SWIM

  • Look for the patrol shelters. This is where surf lifesavers will be set up and patrolling the beach from

All South Australian surf lifesavers wear a distinctive red and yellow uniform, making them even easier to spot. For more information visit the Health Direct website.

 

PUBLIC HEALTH CARE

Australia's public health care system is called Medicare. Eligibility for benefits is generally restricted to residents of Australia. While Australia does have reciprocal healthcare agreements with several countries, it is best to check before you leave home and to always have appropriate travel insurance. For hospitals near you visit the My Hospitals website.

BE SUN SMART

In the Fleurieu Peninsula, our summers (December - February) are hot. It often soars above 35°C. Make sure you wear a hat, sunglasses, adequate clothing, and sunscreen of at least SPF 30+. Drink plenty of water and seek shade in the extreme heat of the day between 11 am and 3 pm.

VACCINATIONS

If you are from a yellow fever-infected country or zone or have visited one within six days before entering Australia, you will need to be vaccinated. On arrival, customs officials may ask for your international vaccination certificate.

TRAVEL ASSISTANCE

If you are elderly, disabled, recovering from illness or surgery, or travelling with children, you can receive travel assistance through Medical Travel Companions.

Assistance is offered in the form of travel nannies; nurses or paramedics who will accompany passengers on their flights to ensure a stress-free journey.

If you’re looking for accessible travel options to turn your trip into an adventure without worrying if you’ll be able to access suitable facilities, The Good Scout Travel Company is a platform for helping you plan your next accessible adventure. You'll find accommodation options, experiences, and tailored destination information to suit your access needs.

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