River and Estuary

Stay SharkSmart when using rivers and estuaries in Western Australia

Notification system (from infographic)

Check the SharkSmart WA app or website for shark activity before heading for the water

Take note of the closest BEN sign if available

Swim within an enclosure when possible

Always swim with a buddy

Don’t surf with a bleeding or open wound

Swim in clear water — avoid dark and murky waters as low visibility can lead to mistaken identity

Avoid large schools of fish, dolphins or bird rookeries

Never swim near fish cleaning areas, or where human or animal waste enters the water

Stay close to shore and avoid channels or areas with nearby drop-offs

Avoid swimming near estuary mouths, harbours, canals and near (under) bridges where the river width is reduced and prey may accumulate

If wildlife starts to behave erratically, leave the water

Stay alert of your surroundings. If you see a shark, stay calm, leave the water as quickly and calmly as possible

Be aware of the environment — take care on the river bank as it may be uneven and slippery. Look for submerged objects such as rocks and tree branches

Public sightings are vital for authorities to provide public safety warnings that may help save peoples’ lives.

Stay SharkSmart when using rivers and estuaries in Western Australia

Notification system (from infographic)

Notification system video (from infographic)

Subject / Short description

Check the SharkSmart WA app or website for shark activity before heading for the water

Take note of the closest BEN sign if available

Swim within an enclosure when possible

Always swim with a buddy

Don’t surf with a bleeding or open wound

Swim in clear water — avoid dark and murky waters as low visibility can lead to mistaken identity

Avoid large schools of fish, dolphins or bird rookeries

Never swim near fish cleaning areas, or where human or animal waste enters the water

Stay close to shore and avoid channels or areas with nearby drop-offs

Avoid swimming near estuary mouths, harbours, canals and near (under) bridges where the river width is reduced and prey may accumulate

If wildlife starts to behave erratically, leave the water

Stay alert of your surroundings. If you see a shark, stay calm, leave the water as quickly and calmly as possible

Be aware of the environment — take care on the river bank as it may be uneven and slippery. Look for submerged objects such as rocks and tree branches

Swim between the flags at patrolled beaches, avoid swimming at dawn and dusk, and always check for warning signs before entering the water.

Your quick report to Water Police on 9442 8600 can help save lives by alerting other water users to potential dangers in your area.

WA uses satellite tags, drone surveillance, and acoustic receivers to track shark movements and provide early warnings to beachgoers.

Notification system video (from infographic)

Subject / Short description

Public sightings are vital for authorities to provide public safety warnings that may help save peoples’ lives.

Swim between the flags at patrolled beaches, avoid swimming at dawn and dusk, and always check for warning signs before entering the water.

Your quick report to Water Police on 9442 8600 can help save lives by alerting other water users to potential dangers in your area.

WA uses satellite tags, drone surveillance, and acoustic receivers to track shark movements and provide early warnings to beachgoers.

When you arrive at the water, check for closure or warning signs. If there has been a recent reported shark sighting, tagged shark detection or shark attractant — for example, stranded dolphin — the land manager may install signage.