An emergency is an actual or imminent hazard that puts lives at risk.

While a shark hazard may keep you temporarily out of the water, it doesn't mean you can't use the beach. Build a sand castle, walk the dog, have a picnic and enjoy times with friends and families.

When a shark sighting is reported either to Triple Zero (000) or to a surf lifesaver, the following will happen:

• The information is communicated as an incident through the VicEmergency website, app, Facebook and Twitter channels as well as the VicEmergency Hotline (freecall 1800 226 226).
  When you set up your 'watch zone' after first downloading the app, notifications for shark sightings and beach closures are automatically turned on. This means if a beach is closed or a shark hazard in your area, the app will alert you.
• If on a patrolled beach, surf lifesavers may direct you to leave the water and close the beach until the shark has left the area.
• If a warning is issued in your watch zone for any emergency you will receive a notification via the app. An advice message informs people that there is a heightened risk in the area and they should follow the recommended measures to stay safe.
• If a warning message is displayed it means there is imminent danger and people should stay out of the water.
• Using the VicEmergency website you can sign up to receive notifications via email if using the app doesn't suit you.
• Once the risk no longer exists, the icon will disappear. In the case of a warning message, an all clear message will be issued when the area has been cleared for visible sharks.

In addition, there may be a community information notice displayed. These notices identify specific hazards, such as a whale carcass, that may increase the risk of sharks being in an area.

For more information on how to use the VicEmergency app, visit the VicEmergency Knowledge Hub, where you will find a range tutorial videos and instructions to help you get the most out of the VicEmergency app.