Hawkesbury Council has installed new water safety devices at Macquarie Park

Macquarie Park's Windsor Beach is a popular destination for locals and visitors looking to enjoy the water during warmer months.

Hawkesbury City Council has partnered with Royal Life Saving NSW (RLSNSW) to install two water safety devices for the public to use in the event of a member of the public finding themselves in distress in the water.

One has been installed near the canoe launching area and one further upstream at the beach.

Hawkesbury is only the second council in NSW to install the devices along its river.

According to RLSNSW, 99 people lost their lives to drowning in Australia in the past year - 40 of those were in rivers, lakes and dams.

Hawkesbury Mayor, Patrick Conolly, said it was important to enjoy the Hawkesbury River safely.

"The community asked for safety devices to be installed near Windsor Beach and council has listened," he said "I'd like to thank everyone who approached me personally to raise this important issue.

"Council is pleased to do what we can to help support people enjoying our river safely, and we are proud to be able to partner with Royal Life Saving NSW on this project.

"However, it is important that as the weather warms up that we all enjoy the river in a safe and responsible way. Safety devices are important, but they are not a replacement for good sense and proper supervision."

RLSNSW CEO, Michael Ilinsky, thanked the council for its commitment to water safety.

"As we re-engage with our waterways, Royal Life Saving understands the importance of working with our key partners and networks to ensure our communities are aware of aquatic risks and adhering to responsible behaviours," Mr Ilinsky said.

"Hawkesbury City Council has been a strong advocate for water safety and worked alongside Royal Life Saving to support critical initiatives. Royal Life Saving congratulates the Council for this commitment and dedication to community safety.

"Rivers and lakes continue to be a leading location for drowning. Rapidly changing conditions and hidden dangers, such as strong currents, submerged objects, slippery or crumbling banks and cold water, can lead to people getting into difficulty.

"The provision of public rescue equipment is an elevated commitment to support safe aquatic participation. Royal Life Saving seeks to support safe aquatic participation along our major rivers."