Revellers heading to the coast, rivers and waterways this New Year period are being urged to put safety first, ahead of one of the most dangerous times of year around the water.

Despite relatively mild weather forecast across much of coastal NSW, large crowds are expected to enjoy water activities as people take advantage of the holiday period, increasing the risk of swimming and boating incidents.

New Year’s Day is one of the highest-risk days of the year for coastal incidents and drownings, with tragedies three times more likely than on any other day.

On average, six people have drowned on the NSW coast during December over the past five years.

Since the start of December, Surf Life Saving NSW volunteers have performed 304 rescues and 849 first aids.

SLSNSW teams across the state will be fully operational during New Year festivities, conducting surveillance patrols late into the evening along the coast and assisting other emergency services.

Over the past week, Marine Rescue NSW volunteers across the state have performed 182 search and rescue missions, including 44 emergency responses, safely returning 473 people to shore.

Marine Rescue NSW will be ready to respond 24/7 during New Year’s celebrations across the state and will be assisting with exclusion zones on Sydney Harbour on New Year’s Eve, including with 10 vessels on Sydney Harbour.

The community is being urged to take safety warnings seriously these holidays, particularly around alcohol consumption while swimming or boating and especially at unpatrolled locations - where the majority of coastal drowning incidents occur.

People celebrating New Year’s near the water are strongly reminded to avoid swimming at night, outside of patrol hours and in remote locations, and to be aware that alcohol, recreational drugs and the ocean can be a deadly combination.

“Every summer, tragically, we see people overestimate their ability and the consequences can be devastating. Most water-related tragedies are preventable, and it only takes one poor decision to change lives forever," said Emergency Services Minister Jihad Dib.

“Look after yourself, your friends, your family and the people around you – please make safety the priority this New Year.

“The New Year period is a very busy time for our emergency services, with thousands of people on and around the water.

"The best way to support our lifesavers and rescue crews is by making smart choices before you enter the water.”

Surf Life Saving NSW Chief Executive Officer Steve Pearce said the New Year period has always been one of the busiest on our beaches.

“We're really urging potential beachgoers to take heed of those basic safety messages; don't swim at unpatrolled locations, look for the red and yellow flags - because if our lifesavers can't see you they can't save you - and understand your limits when entering the ocean.

"Please remember to Stop, Look, and Stay Alive this New Year."

Marine Rescue NSW Acting Deputy Commissioner Dan Duemmer said most boating incidents over the past week have been due to engine, battery and fuel issues - which are preventable.

“Boaters must ensure their vessel is in good working order before launching, have the correct safety equipment on board, always wear a lifejacket, log on, and carry enough fuel, with some in reserve.

"These measures will not only help you have a safe and enjoyable day on the water - they might just save your life.

“If you’re heading out on the water on New Year’s Eve, please plan and prepare, and make sure your lights are working.”