Letters to the Editor, July 2, 2013

I lived in Shek O for nine years and, like other residents, came to dread the sound of helicopters during the summer because this usually meant that a search had been launched for a body.

I saw how Shek O and Big Wave Bay surfers made up an informal life-saving squad, often putting their own lives in danger to save beach-goers who had got into trouble. I saw Shek O resident surfers and others regularly give help to people in various states of distress in the water. I often escorted people back to the beach from the swimming platforms because they did not have the strength or confidence to return alone. Sometimes four or five youngsters on a flimsy inflatable would be floating in deep water and were unable to paddle back to shore.

Although swimming safety - not swimming in your clothes, if you are drunk, or at night - may seem like common sense, these are things we learn (however unconsciously) from our parents and teachers.

They are like learning to look left and right before crossing the road, and should be instilled early and indelibly.

Qualified, fit and well-equipped life-saving teams are vital, as are flags and prominent signage, but these alone are not enough.