Every summer, people look for somewhere to cool off: farm dams, quarries, rivers, creeks and boat ramps. Many of these places have hidden dangers, from deep cold water and strong currents to crocodiles and algae. Warning signs at the water's edge can save lives. This guide covers the water safety signs landholders, councils, caravan parks, marinas and builders use most.
Water safety signage on public beaches and waterways is usually managed by councils, lifesaving organisations and state agencies. The signs below suit private land, parks, sites and facilities. This guide is general information.
1. No swimming
- Danger: no swimming allowed
- Dam: no swimming: for farm dams and stormwater ponds.
- No swimming: strong flowing current for rivers, weirs and creeks.
- Boat ramp: no swimming
- Danger: crocodiles, no swimming for northern Australia.
2. Deep water
- Danger: deep water and Warning: deep water
- Deep water sediment basin: keep out: a must on construction and civil sites.
- Danger: quarry workings, deep water, no swimming, keep out. See our mine and quarry signs guide.
3. Currents, algae and floods
- Possible rip currents: swim with care
- Warning: blue-green algae, do not enter water: common in warm weather.
- No fishing, swimming and boating: strong undercurrent
- Warning: flood zone, Floodway and Flood evacuation route
4. Rescue equipment
- Rescue lifebuoy sign: shows where the lifebuoy is kept.
- Life-saving vest must be worn for jetties, wharves and work over water.
5. Boat ramps and jetties
- Boat ramp: prepare vessel before entering ramp
- No parking: boat ramp trailer parking only and Boat and trailer parking only
- Private jetty: no public access
- No fishing and No fishing, no swimming
Also popular: Warning, shallow water ยท Caution, water skiing area ยท No lifeguard on duty, swim at your own risk
Material tips
Water's edge signs face sun, damp and salt. Aluminium lasts best. Mount signs on posts where people approach the water, such as tracks, gates and car parks, and use reflective signs where people may arrive at dusk.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a sign on my farm dam?
Requirements vary, but a "no swimming" sign is a simple, low-cost way to warn visitors, workers and neighbours' kids. Your insurer or council may have a view too.
How fast will they arrive?
Every sign is made to order and dispatched in 2โ3 business days. Every sign is 30% off until 31 December.
For pools, see our pool safety signs guide.
Related: Summer safety signs: heat stress, sun and snakes
Looking for something else? Browse every guide in our Sign Guide Library.