Sun and Water Safety 

Australia's sun can be much stronger than what you're accustomed to in your home country. To protect your skin, follow these precautions:

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• Always check the weather forecast at www.bom.gov.au before heading outdoors.

• Apply sunscreen, such as SPF30+ water-resistant sun lotion, before going outside.

• Put on sunscreen at least 25-30 minutes prior to swimming and reapply it afterward.

• Wear a hat and UV-protected sunglasses.

• Avoid direct sunlight between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun's rays are strongest.

• Follow these guidelines even on cloudy or overcast days, as you can still get sunburnt.

 

Australia boasts beautiful beaches and waterways, but swimming requires caution. Here are water safety tips:

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• Do not enter water if you're unsure about its depth.

• Swim only at patrolled beaches, where lifeguards are present, and stay between the red and yellow flags to ensure you are visible to lifeguards.

• Be aware of rips, strong underwater currents that can pull you away from shore. Swimming between the flags can help avoid rips. If caught in a rip, don’t panic or swim against the current. Instead, stay with your surfboard or floating device, swim parallel to the shore out of the rip zone, or signal for help.

 

Australia is often ranked among the world's safest countries, making it a welcoming place to live and study. However, it's important to stay vigilant and aware of potential hazards, especially when you're new to the country. Whether it's dealing with emergencies, personal and home safety, or natural elements like sun, water, and fire, using common sense and following best practices will help keep you safe and healthy.