Published 20 February 2023
Eight people have drowned across just two days in Australian waterways, with Royal Life Saving issuing an urgent plea for people to plan ahead for water safety.
In February, twenty-five people had already lost their lives to drowning (as at 19 February). That is more than one life every day.
The eight deaths on Saturday and Sunday, occurred across all locations – beaches, rivers and swimming pools.
Royal Life Saving Society – Australia Chief Executive Officer Justin Scarr said the spate of drowning deaths on Saturday and Sunday was deeply concerning.
“Not every fatal drowning is reported in the media. When we work with coroners around Australia for the Royal Life Saving National Drowning Report we see a significant rise in the number of drowning deaths,” Mr Scarr said.
“But even with that additional information, we know that this is the tip of the iceberg. Many more non-fatal drowning incidents are likely to have occurred that aren’t recorded in publicly accessible data and so remain invisible.
“So we are issuing a plea to everyone who is in, on and around the water to plan ahead to minimise their risks.
“Check the conditions and make sure you find out about known risk factors.
“The La Niña conditions have changed waterways and walking paths, with erosion in many places. Sandbars will have moved and there is often debris in rivers, lakes and water holes which isn’t visible on the surface.
“Don’t go alone. If you’re with someone they can raise the alarm if something goes wrong. Be aware of your abilities, even at swimming pools, and be especially cautious at locations where there may not be lifeguards to help.
“If you are going out on a boat or kayak, make sure you have up-to-date, well-fitting lifejackets. Lifejackets save lives in an emergency, but they can’t help you if they’re stashed away somewhere.”
Royal Life Saving urges everyone to be aware of their safety around the water, in all locations.
These are our top five tips to enjoy the water safely this summer:
- Always supervise children around water
- Avoid alcohol around water
- Wear a lifejacket when boating and fishing
- Know the conditions
- Avoid going alone
Royal Life Saving Summer Drowning Toll
Royal Life Saving’s Summer Drowning Toll is updated regularly over the summer (1 Dec 2022 to 28 Feb 2023). The website includes an analysis of fatal drowning, including a comparison of ‘this time’ last summer, as well as location and activity information. The website can be found at https://www.royallifesaving.com.au/research-and-policy/drowning-research/summer-drowning-toll
Royal Life Saving Society – Australia’s research, education and advocacy work in drowning prevention and water safety is supported by the Australian Government.
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