Summer brings warmer weather, outdoor activities, and increased water-related activities. As a water-loving nation, being able to enjoy the water safely is a priority for all Australians. Whether you’re swimming at the beach, boating on a lake, or relaxing by the pool being prepared and brushing up on water safety precautions is essential to prevent drowning and water-related injuries.
According to the Royal Life Saving Western Australia ‘s 2022/23 WA Drowning Report, this risk varies significantly with age and highlights the need for targeted age-specific interventions to reduce drowning risk. Toddlers recorded the highest rate of drowning in 2022/23 followed by older adults 65+ years. Rachel Murray from Royal Life Saving Society WA (RLSWA) talks about the importance of supervising children around water and outlines strategies covered in their Keep Watch program.
In Western Australia we know that the impact of drowning not only affects those living in our metro areas, but that people living in regional WA are 1.7 times more likely to be involved in a drowning incident (fatal and non-fatal), with 9.5% of drownings involving Aboriginal peoples in 2022/23. To better understand the impacts of drowning and help raise awareness of water safety and injury prevention. explore effective prevention strategies in WA, Injury Matters has created a suite of valuable resources such as toolkits and factsheets.
Remember
Drowning prevention starts with you. Before heading our this summer, prepare before you leave home and learn how to enjoy the water safely:
- Know your swimming abilities
- Always supervise children around water
- Avoid alcohol around water
- Wear a lifejacket when boating and fishing
- Avoid going alone
- Know the conditions
- Swim at a patrolled beach between the red and yellow flags
