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We have decided to create a (BENS) series Beach Emergency Number as we spend a lot of time at different beaches.
Next time you are visiting the beach, take note of the Red and green signs with a number that identifies the beach you are on. BEN signs are being installed along the West Australian coast at beach access points in participating local government authority areas (LGAs) from Geraldton to Esperance. Some signs will also be located at harbours and estuaries, boat ramps, fishing platforms and jetties. You can guide emergency services to a specific location using the Beach Emergency Number on the signs.
HOW DO BEN SIGNS WORK?
Each BEN sign has a unique code based on an area prefix followed by a one to four-digit number. This code is linked to the coordinates for the sign's location. The official location name (if there is one), the address, suburb and nearest intersection are also on each sign. This information is integrated into computer aided dispatch systems used by emergency services (ambulance, police and fire crews).
HOW ARE BEACH EMERGENCY NUMBERS ALLOCATED?
The BEN code prefixes are consistent with the Department of Transport’s system for vehicle number plates. The numbers, which are usually not sequential, are based on the distance between the beach nearest the sign and the LGA’s northern or western boundary. e.g. WR101 means the Shire of Waroona, approximately 10.1 km from its northern boundary. This means they get higher going further south or east within an LGA area.
HOW DO I USE A BEN SIGN IN AN EMERGENCY?
In an emergency, dial triple zero and quote the unique code and location information on the nearest BEN sign. Where possible, someone should wait at the BEN sign until emergency service crews arrive
HOW DO I USE A BEN SIGN WHEN REPORTING SHARK SIGHTINGS?
BEN signs may also be referred to when reporting shark sightings to Water Police on 9442 8600. This will help beach managers implement beach closures earlier by using this accurate location information.
WHAT IF THERE IS NO BEN SIGN?
In an emergency where there is no BEN sign, you are encouraged to use the Emergency+ app. The app uses the GPS functionality built into smart phones to help a triple zero caller provide critical location details required to mobilise emergency services. For more information visit http://emergencyapp.triplezero.gov.au/
Happy Beach Jumping
We would love to see this series take off and others placed along the coast line to bring awereness