The public can take an active role in a variety of practical activities concerned with beach management. The participation of the public in monitoring helps to raise awareness of the condition of the recreational water use area and provides a cost-effective method of gathering large amounts of data which can then be acted upon by beach managers (see Chapter 12). Involvement of the public in special interest groups, such as voluntary lifeguard organisations, helps to educate the public for self protection. Beach managers have a responsibility to educate the public about hazards related to the recreational water use area, to provide warnings to the public and to

* This chapter was prepared by B.Van Maele, K.Pond, A.T.Williams and K.Dubsky

provide other information. There are a variety of methods for communicating with the public, such as flags, signs, literature or beach awards. Whichever method is used, it is imperative that the public understands clearly the message being conveyed.