Dr Rip's essential beach book by Rob Brander
This is a wonderful book that needs to be in every home, library and school. Could this book be available at airports to help those new to, or visiting, Australia to be enjoying the best of our outdoor lifestyle without risking their lives? The practical advice and information delivered in this book will assist those who live near the beach, or who visit at holiday time. In plain English, the reader learns about ways to manage some of the hazards that can pop up on a trip to the beach.
Expert knowledge sits behind the bottom line delivered in this handbook. Rob Brander is a coastal scientist at the University of New South Wales. He specialises in rip currents and beach safety and has been giving talks on 'The Science of the Surf' to children and the wider community since 2001.
The chapters explore the science behind waves, tides, tsunamis and rips. 'The Rip Current Survival Guide' is easy to understand and essential for all who visit the beach – even if it is once a year. The reader will have a better understanding of rip currents, how to spot them and how to behave if caught in one. The chapter on staying safe at the beach is also worth a mention. For those who love a good index, there are easy to find entry points to the information you seek. Each chapter ends with a synopsis (bottom line) that recaps the important understandings.
If this book has piqued your interest you might like to explore the Science of the Surf (SOS) community beach safety program initiated by Rob Brander. His Rip of the Month webpage has links to images of rips from around the world. There you can test your knowledge and become an expert in identifying these dangerous waters.
Do you always choose to swim at a beach where there are lifesavers – and swim between the flags? Do you pay attention to beach safety signs and stay aware of others swimmers or beach craft? This is the book for you.
Themes: Beach safety, Water safety, Beaches, Sharks, Waves, Nature, Australian coasts.
Linda Guthrie