Sunday's Tin Can Bay tragedy a reminder to us all

The terrible events that unfolded at Tin Can Bay on Sunday afternoon are a heartbreaking reminder that we must all be vigilant about water safety.

THE terrible events that unfolded at Tin Can Bay on Sunday afternoon are a heartbreaking reminder that we must all be vigilant about water safety.

Especially when children are involved.

Playing on and in the water is an integral part of life for most Queenslanders, especially those of us lucky enough to live on or close to the coast. But the water is not our natural environment, and looks can be deceiving.

The refreshing and crystal clear waters of our stunning coast hold hidden dangers.

So the more of us who know what to do if things go wrong, the better.

The selfless courage shown by Gympie truck driver Adam Whitehouse on Sunday almost cost him his life, and most certainly the tragic outcome for the little boy he was unable to save will haunt him, as it haunts Graeme Spillman, who pulled Adam and the boys from the water on to his boat and administered CPR.

Would we all know what to do in such a situation? Who to call? How to make ourselves useful? It's something we should all think about and make sure we do know.

Is there something - anything - you can offer? Provide shade or water or support to someone in need or someone helping someone in need? Run for more help?

Never assume your help isn't needed or wanted. Because it probably is.