Published 20 December 2024
Tragically last summer, our multicultural communities were hugely rocked by multiple drowning deaths. We’re asking people this summer to be prepared before heading to the water this summer to avoid another tragic summer. Drowning can happen to anyone, regardless of swimming ability, and often occurs when it’s least expected.
The riskiest time for drowning is between the Christmas and New Year holiday period. Last year, migrants accounted for 39% of all drowning deaths during this one week.
Reducing drowning among multicultural is a key area of the Australian Water Safety Strategy 2030, and Royal Life Saving has been working with community leaders to ensure that safety messages are tailored and culturally relevant.
Now in its fourth year, the ‘Make Safe Decisions Around Water’ campaign continues to highlight five key messages to keep our communities safe in and around water. Developed in collaboration with community leaders and advisors, the campaign focuses on promoting safety while swimming, boating, and fishing.
These safety messages will be rolled out across community networks from today in multiple languages, so you may not see these messages on our usual media channels.
Some key tips to stay safe when swimming, boating and fishing:
- Never go alone in the water – always have a buddy.
- Always wear a lifejacket when boating, fishing, or paddling.
- Don’t drink alcohol when you go swimming, boating, or fishing.
- Supervise children closely around all water, including pools, rivers, and beaches.
- Learn to swim and learn how to stay safe in and around water
To find safety messages in your language, visit the following webpage:
