A rock fisherman has been rescued after being washed from rocks at Kiama overnight, NSW Police say.
Emergency services were called to Jones Beach, about 1.30am today following reports a 51-year-old man was hit by a wave and washed into the ocean.
It is believed he was wearing a life jacket and was equipped with a torch.
The man’s friend raised the alarm with residents and emergency services were contacted.
He was sighted about 50 metres offshore and was rescued by the Kiama Surf Rescue jet boat. He was airlifted to St George Hospital and remains in a serious but stable condition suffering head injuries.
Rock anglers are urged to follow these safety tips when they venture out:
* Always wear a life jacket
* Make enquiries and check weather and conditions before you leave home
* Observe first/fish later: watch your intended fishing spot to get an idea of the conditions over a full swell/wave cycle
* Carry safety gear; head protection, as well as a float and line to help anyone else who might be washed into the water.
* Never fish by yourself and always stand within sight of each other
* Make sure you let family and friends know where you are going and when you’ll be back
* Carry a mobile phone
* Never fish in exposed areas during rough or large seas and be aware that conditions may change dramatically in a short period of time
* Stay alert. Never turn your back on the sea
* If waves, the weather or swell threaten your fishing spot, leave immediately
* If in doubt, don’t go out
* In the event of an emergency, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
Further safety information can be found at: www.safefishing.com.au.
Multilingual rock fishing safety brochures can be downloaded from the website: www.safewaters.nsw.gov.au/fishing.htm
In addition, ‘angel rings’ or life buoys have been installed at black spots along the state’s coast by the Australian National Sport fishing Association, with the support of the Department of Sport and Recreation and NSW Sporting Injuries Insurance.
The flotation devices are located on rock platforms and easily accessible in case of an emergency.
