The Royal Life Saving Society & Surf Life Saving Australia have put out an urgent call to keep water safety top of mind when planning a day in, on or near the water. This is especially relevant given the predictions of a long and hot summer ahead.

Adam Weir, Chief Executive Officer, Surf Life Saving Australia said, “Drowning deaths in coastal environments including beaches, ocean/harbour locations, and off rocks decreased by nine per cent compared to the previous year, although sadly there were 125 coastal drowning deaths recorded, three per cent above the 10-year average.”

“Rip currents are the number one coastal hazard and are a contributing factor in almost a quarter of coastal drowning deaths. Tragically, there was a significant increase in bystander rescuer drowning deaths, and drowning deaths at beaches were 29 per cent above the 10-year average,” Mr Weir said.

The National Drowning Report 2023, which was released on 11 September by Minister for Sport Anika Wells found there were 281 drowning deaths over the past 12 months, which is 17 per cent lower than last year (339), and returns the annual drowning toll closer to pre-pandemic levels. 

It’s good news that the numbers are down, but statistics show that the danger areas are children under 5 years (16 deaths), adults over 45 (160 deaths), coastal (125 deaths on beaches, off the rocks, ocean and harbours), inland waterways (103 deaths in rivers and lakes), plus swimming pools (29 deaths – 13 deaths were in backyard pools).

“With very hot and dry conditions forecast this summer, water safety should be top of mind,” said Minister Wells. “I urge all Australians to always supervise children around water, learn swimming, water safety and lifesaving skills, wear a lifejacket when boating, and rock fishing and to swim at a patrolled beach between the red and yellow flags.”

“Enjoying a swim has so many benefits for people of all ages, especially older adults. Some simple precautions, like having a medical check-up to ensure you are swim fit, or going to the local swimming pool to refresh your skills is a great idea ahead of the expected hot summer,” adds Minister Wells.

The advice from Royal Life Saving Australia and Surf Life Saving Australia is:

• Always supervise children in, on and around water
• Learn swimming, water safety and lifesaving skills
• Wear a lifejacket when boating, rock fishing or paddling
• Swim at a patrolled beach between the red and yellow flags
• Avoid alcohol and drugs around water
• Check the conditions, including weather forecasts.