Australia fits drones with sirens to warn beachgoers from sharks

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For the first time, drone sirens will be used to warn beachgoers of approaching sharks, the New South Wales (NSW) State Government in Australia said on Thursday.

"Drones and helicopters have proved a very successful measure in protecting beachgoers. Last summer, 571 dangerous sharks were spotted by them and they also assisted in saving two swimmers caught in a rip," NSW Minister for Primary Industries Niall Blair said in a statement.

Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. /VCG Photo

"We are committed to do all we can to protect beachgoers and one of the best ways we can do during the busy school holidays is through our eyes in the sky."

Starting July 1, the Northern NSW coast will be the first location to trail the new technology, as they have suffered a substantial increase in shark attacks over recent years.

Of the 26 shark attacks that took place in Australia last year, 16 of them were in New South Wales.

Shark attacks are a threat to beachgoers in Australia. /VCG Photo

A mobile application called SharkSmart will also be used to update beachgoers of any breaking news at their local beach in order to keep them away from danger.

To go along with this science-driven shark management strategy, 35 baited drumlines have been deployed to provide real-time shark alerts via Twitter and the app when a tagged shark swims within 500 meters.

(Source: Xinhua)