A network of emergency markers will ensure visitors remain safe at Goulburn-Murray Water (GMW) waterways and storages these school holidays.
The markers are unique signs with three letters and three numbers that provide exact location information for emergency services when they are called out to emergency incidents.
GMW has markers in place at lakes Eppalock, Buffalo, Mulwala, William Hovell, and Nillahcootie as well as along the Ovens River at Bundalong.
The water corporation started installing the markers in 2018 with 60 of them now in place at locations such as public boat ramps, commercial caravan park boat ramps, some foreshore areas near club sites, and strategic perimeter locations.
GMW recreation and land officer Chris Braden said the markers provided all the crucial information emergency services needed when they responded to emergency incidents.
“That includes key travel directions to the incident, the nearest intersection to it, and how long it will take to get to it,” he said.
“The markers can also include details about whether helicopter assistance is needed for the emergency situation.”
Markers at GMW locations have provided comprehensive data to emergency services for more that 30 emergency incident callouts since 2020.
Mr Braden said having the best systems in place when emergency situations occurred was important.
“Making sure the community is safe at GMW sites is absolutely crucial including during the busy school holiday period,” he said.
“We know how important these markers are in helping keep the community safe.
“That’s why we’re continuing to explore where else we can set up more of these markers at GMW locations.”
Life Saving Victoria’s general manager aquatic capability Andy Dennis said emergency makers are a vital tool that helped emergency services reach people quickly in critical situations.
“We commend Goulburn-Murray Water for expanding this safety network, especially ahead of the busy school holiday period,” he said.
“Every second matters in an emergency, and this initiative helps save lives.”