Royal Life Saving Society pushes water safety message after drowning deaths

Most drownings happen in summer, and water safety advocates have named Townsville’s drowning hotspot and the biggest drowning risk factor. See the seven tips on how to stay safe.

Senior lifeguard Piper-Lily Davidt keeps an eye on swimmers at the Strand. Picture: Evan Morgan

As North Queenslanders flock to pools, beaches, creeks, and rivers to beat the heat, water safety will be critical, especially given the number of drownings around the country since summer began.

According to the Royal Life Saving Summer Drowning Toll, since December 26, there have been 15 drownings reported in Australia this summer – 13 were male (81 per cent) and three females (19 per cent).

At this time last year, there were 36 drowning deaths recorded, with Australia going on to break its record for the highest number of drowning deaths in more than 20 years after 145 lives were lost in the 2021-22 summer.

Royal Life Saving Society Queensland (RLSSQ) education and training officer Beverley Newton has warned that the period between Christmas and January 2 was when most people drowned.

“Although it is a time to relax and enjoy family time in and around water, we want everyone to return home safely at the end of the day,” Ms Newton said.

“Alcohol was present in more than a quarter of drowning deaths last summer. Men particularly need to leave their alcohol consumption until after they’re out of the water.

“If you’re boating, fishing or kayaking, make sure that you wear a lifejacket that meets the current Australian standard and fits properly.”

Senior lifeguard Piper-Lily Davidt on the Strand. Picture: Evan Morgan

In Queensland, the leading location for drowning in Queensland was in rivers and creeks, accounting for 37 per cent of drownings, Ms Newton said.

“Ross River that runs through Townsville is in the top 10 rivers in Queensland for drowning incidents,” she said.

Figures released as part of Townsville and Surrounds Water Safety Strategy 2023-26 reveal that of the 655 drowning deaths in Queensland in the 10 years ending in 2021, 33 of the fatalities were in Townsville, with more than 25 per cent involving alcohol consumption.

To reduce the risk of drowning, RLSSQ recommends that children are always supervised around water, wearing a lifejacket when boating and fishing, knowing the conditions, avoiding going alone, and avoiding alcohol around water.

For more information visit: www.royallifesaving.com.au

Surf Live Saving Queensland’s Summer safety tips

1. Where possible, swim at a patrolled beach, between the red and yellow flags

2. Regardless of whether you’re at a patrolled or unpatrolled beach, adopt a STOP, LOOK, PLAN approach

STOP – check for rip currents

LOOK – for the other hazards

PLAN – to stay safe, to swim at a patrolled location

3. Wear a lifejacket if boating, rock fishing or on watercraft

4. Check weather conditions before heading out

5. Avoid alcohol and drugs when on or around water

6. Supervise children at all times on, in and around water

7. Visit Beachsafe.org.au

Originally published as Royal Life Saving Society pushes water safety message after drowning deaths