The Northern Territory still has highest rate of drowning per capita in Australia

THE Territory still has the highest drowning rates per capita in Australia, says Royal Life Saving Water Safety Unit manager Jill Dowd

THE Territory still has the highest drowning rate per capita in Australia, says Royal Life Saving Water Safety Unit manager Jill Dowd.

“It’s probably related around the outdoor lifestyles that we lead and the way we create and enjoy those activities around the water,” she said. New data from Royal Life Saving shows 461 kids under the age of 5 have drowned in Australia in the past 15 years – an average of 31 deaths a year.

In the NT, 10 children aged 0-4 years have drowned, half of which were in home swimming pools.

Ms Dowd said NT kids were exposed to water at a very young age due to the Territory’s heat and outdoor lifestyle. “Children grow up around the water from a very young age – given our climate,” she said.

Ms Dowd said, considering how much time young Territorians spent in the water, it was important NT kids learnt to swim and were supervised at all times.

She welcomed potential changes to the NT’s pool fencing laws – which would follow a review to be handed down later this year.

Pool fencing laws introduced to the NT in 2003 that require barriers around pools and spas only apply to properties smaller than 1.8ha.

Different standards and certification requirements apply depending if a pool was installed before or after January 1, 2003, and if the property has previously been sold, transferred or leased.

“It’s under review – any changes that will support or increase the safety of children is welcome,” Ms Dowd said.

Today, Royal Life Saving launches its new “Keep Watch” campaign, urging parents and carers to look after children around water no matter what.

Royal Life Saving Society NT executive director Floss Roberts said water was only safe when you’re watching.

“Distractions like answering the phone, attending to another child, or ducking inside to grab something can have tragic consequences if a toddler is left unattended by water,” she said.

“Swimming lessons are great, but they are no substitute for active supervision and a pool fence in good working order.”

The four Keep Watch messages are: constant adult supervision, restrict access to water, teach children water safety, and learn how to resuscitate.