POLICE have appealed for beachgoers to keep safe around the water as the summer season kicks in.
Last week, the Hobsons Bay community liaison officer, Senior Constable Sharon Radau, issued the warning after an incident earlier this month.
On 1 January, a resident saw a solo kayaker thrown into the sea by rough waves off Altona Beach.
Sen Const Radau said the choppy ocean conditions prevented the kayaker from getting back onto the upturned boat and he drifted up to 50 metres away, in an exhausted state.
“A resident living opposite the beach happened to witness the entire incident and phoned Triple-zero,” Sen Const Radau said.
“The witnesses’ son threw on his wetsuit and snorkel and swam out to the exhausted male who was struggling in the water.
“Fortunately, the kayaker was wearing his life vest which no doubt saved his life.
“The rescuer reached the kayaker, made sure he was safe and then swam against the waves to the kayak.
“He attempted to turn the kayak over for the kayaker to get back on and paddle back to shore but, because of the weather conditions, was unsuccessful.
“The man then returned and stayed with the kayaker until Water Police arrived and completed a safe rescue.”
Sen Const Radau praised the actions of the witness and his son, who she described as “heroic and quick acting citizens”.
However, Sen Const Radau said the incident highlighted the importance of wearing a life jacket when on the water.
She said other important safety measures for seafarers included thoroughly planning activities, checking weather and being accompanied by a friend.
