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The coast around San Remo is dangerous.Credit:Film Victoria

Victoria Police said the woman fell into the water near theGeorge Bass Coastal Walk in San Remo about 10.50am on Thursday after being swept off rocks.

Officers spent most of the day combing the area with the assistance of the police air wing and Life Saving Victoria but as of 9.30pm on Thursday,the woman was yet to be found.

A police spokeswoman said crews would meet in the morning to reassess the operation.

Victoria Police urged anyone who witnessed the incident or with information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000,while Life Saving Victoria reminded Victorians to be safe in the water.

With revellers expected to flock to pools and beaches to cope with the weekend’s forecast hot weather,water authorities are warning against taking alcohol and drugs near the water.

Drownings are twice more likely to occur on a public holiday or a long weekend,particularly if alcohol and drugs are consumed.

Police officers will be dispatched to key boat ramps across the state to test Victorians for both substances,which played a role in 31 per cent of drownings in the state over the past decade.

Authorities are urging people to supervise children by keeping them within arm’s reach if they are under five or within their line of sight if they are older,and to swim between the flags.

For those planning a weekend out on a boat,authorities recommend wearing a well-fitted lifejacket and sticking to speed limits.

The New Year’s Eve forecast for Melbourne is 38 degrees,while the rest of the state is also forecast to get hot weather with 37 degrees forecast for Geelong and the Surf Coast,35 on the Mornington Peninsula,37 at Bendigo,35 at Ballarat and 38 at Shepparton.

Life Saving Victoria state agency commander Kane Treloar said Victorians should avoid turning the festivities into fatalities.

“Make this New Year one to remember for the right reasons,” he said.

“While the new year is typically a time for celebration,remember alcohol and water don’t mix. If you’re planning on drinking this new year,only do so after you have left the water.”

Mr Treloar advised people to celebrate in one of60 locations patrolled by Life Saving Victoria.

“It could save your life,” he said.

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