Almost 950,000 people visited Lake Macquarie’s beaches over the six months from October 2016 to March 2017, and lifeguards are gearing up for another busy season.

Council’s beach lifeguard service team leader, Paul Stone, reminded beachgoers to put safety first when planning a trip to the beach.

“The best way for people to stay safe is to swim at patrolled beaches, between those red and yellow flags,” Mr Stone said.

“Our team are easy to spot, dressed in their blue uniforms, and are there to help. So, if you are unsure about the conditions or have any other concerns, have a chat to one of the lifeguards before entering the water.”

Last season lifeguards performed 117 rescues, 2387 first aid responses, and 2421 preventative actions.

Council lifeguards will be on the city’s four patrolled beaches from 8.30am to 5pm, seven days a week until the end of the season in April.

Council is also considering repeating last year’s trial of having an additional lifeguard at Hams Beach, north of Caves Beach, during the six weeks of the summer school holidays.

For more information, visit lakemac.com.au/recreation/patrolled-beaches.