Emergency services warn of the ‘perfect storm’ to hit NSW this weekend

As the Australia Day long weekend approaches, a sense of excitement fills the air. New South Wales (NSW) residents and visitors are expected to head to the state’s beaches and waterways to celebrate, relax, and enjoy the great outdoors.

In line with this, the state’s emergency services urge everyone to remain mindful of safety whether travelling or enjoying water activities to keep a ‘perfect storm’ from turning a weekend of fun into one of danger.

The term ‘perfect storm’ is often used to describe a combination of events that could lead to a catastrophic situation. In this case, the NSW emergency services are not forecasting a violent storm but rather a confluence of factors that could significantly increase the risk of accidents and emergencies.

With the Bureau of Meteorology predicting soaring temperatures around 30C, the allure of beaches and waterways is expected to draw massive crowds. The heat, coupled with the festive spirit, could be a recipe for risky behaviour, particularly when alcohol is involved.

‘Over the past three years, we have had 50 serious incidents, three fatalities and 11 serious injuries over Australia Day,’ said NSW Maritime executive director Mark Hutchings.

‘We want to make sure that this does not occur again over this Australia Day long weekend, knowing the weather is going to be pretty well perfect for boating.’

Stay safe on the road as you head out this Australia Day weekend.

As the heightened risk is not limited to water activities, double demerit points will come into effect on Friday, targeting millions of motorists on the roads.

The double demerit system is a traffic offence deterrent, doubling the usual penalty points for driving infractions during holidays when the volume of travel and the potential for accidents is higher.

The police in NSW, the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), and Western Australia will crackdown on dangerous driving from Friday to Monday, focusing on speeding, driving while intoxicated, failure to wear seatbelts, red light violations, and mobile phone usage behind the wheel.

It is important to note that while NSW, the ACT, and Western Australia are enforcing double demerits, Queensland’s system applies only to repeat offenders, not drivers caught during the holidays.

Meanwhile, Victoria, South Australia, the Northern Territory, and Tasmania have ceased the practice of double demerits altogether.

NSW Police is also looking into conducting record numbers of Random Breath Tests (RBT) and drug tests on the water and the roads to ensure that drivers and boaters are operating their vehicles safely and soberly.

In Sydney, road closures are anticipated due to the city’s fireworks display and a planned protest in the Central Business District (CBD). Beachgoers are advised to consider public transport options, especially with ongoing work on the Sydney Metro affecting certain routes.

NSW Ambulance healthcare executive Paula Sinclair ASM has indicated that the agency is preparing for a surge in emergency calls, anticipating over 3,000 on Friday and more than 3,400 on Australia Day itself. This is a stark reminder of the potential for accidents and health emergencies during such a busy period.

By following the advice of the emergency services and looking out for one another, everyone could enjoy a safe and happy holiday. So, before you set out to join the festivities, take a moment to plan with safety in mind. Your vigilance could make all the difference.

How are you preparing for this weekend’s festivities our YourLifeChoices readers? Are you staying indoors or heading to the beach? We would love to hear your thoughts in the comments section.

Also read: How to protect yourself from ‘avoidable’ shark attacks at WA beaches

Floralyn Teodoro
Floralyn Teodoro
Floralyn covers different topics such as health, lifestyle, and home improvement, among many others. She is also passionate about travel and mindful living.

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