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Beach and river-goers warned of accidental entry risk by Life Saving Victoria

Life Saving Victoria warns beach and river-goers of accidental entry risk.

By news@gippsland - 3rd March 2023 - Back to News

Life Saving Victoria (LSV) is reminding those spending time in or around water during March, of the risk of accidental entry, and that just because you don't intend to enter the water, does not mean you shouldn't be prepared for the risks.

Never swim alone and keep children under constant supervision, wear a lifejacket if boating or fishing and remember to avoid alcohol and drugs while undertaking water-related activities

Activity preceding drowning

This comes as statistics uncover that walking or recreating near water has been a key activity preceding drowning in the month of March, with 17 percent of people fatally drowning in March doing so after walking near water (including on rocks) since the year 2000-01.

LSV manager research and evaluation Dr Hannah Calverley said just because summer is over, this does not mean the risks around water are gone. "The weather may traditionally start to cool down in Victoria as we mark the start of autumn, but with our late start to summer and the Labour Day long weekend ahead, we know many people will be eager to make the most of recreating in or around the water before winter, and it is imperative to do so safely."

"If you are enjoying a beach or river-side holiday and walking or recreating near rocky outcrops or riverbanks, be aware of unstable rocks or slippery edges, wear gripped shoes so you are less likely to slip, and if you are rock fishing, wear a lifejacket to buy you time to survive if you do accidentally end up in the water." Dr Calverley said.

Increased drowning

Dr Calverley said, "In the past decade, accidental entry accounted for 41 percent of fatal drownings so even if you don't intend to end up in the water, it is important to be prepared for all possible outcomes."

With Victorians' likelihood of drowning increasing by 68 per cent on a public holiday, Dr Calverley said this message is particularly important in the lead up to Labour Day on March 13.

Between red and yellow flags

Dr Calverley said, "Tragically, 41 people have already drowned since 1 July 2022, which is nine more than the 10-year average. This is already 41 families too many, whose lives have been forever changed and we do not want to see that number increase this month."

"Those planning on spending the long weekend by the water are reminded to swim between the red and yellow flags at a patrolled location wherever possible, never swim alone and keep children under constant supervision, wear a lifejacket if boating or fishing and remember to avoid alcohol and drugs while undertaking water-related activities. It's these simple decisions that could prove to be life saving for you and your loved ones," Dr Calverley said.

Pictures from Life Saving Victoria Facebook page.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com