Australia’s iconic red and yellow flags confuse international visitors, a new study has contended – as it recommends lifesavers consider changes to beach signage.

After a dramatic rescue which threatened the lifeguard’s own life, Tamarama Beach lifeguard and drowning prevention researcher Dr Masaki Shibata began investigating ways to reduce drownings.

Dr Shibata surveyed 163 university students in South Korea, asking them how they would behave in response to different signage on Australian beaches were they to head for a swim.

“These students see Australia as a beach destination where they can swim in the water, but many have limited experience swimming in the ocean back home,” he said.

“When beach safety signs are misinterpreted or not understood, it puts their lives at risk.”

He fou

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