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Be vigilant around water to prevent accidents and tragedy urged by Life Saving Victoria
Victorians are being urged to take the 'silly' out of 'silly season' when it comes to water safety these holidays, as data shows people are twice as likely to drown on a public holiday than any other time of year.
Victorians are spending leisure time in and around waterways and more people are using recreational vessels, often with less experience. So, as Santa prepares to deliver gifts such as snorkels, fins, swim gear and surfboards this summer, LSV is encouraging everyone to learn how to correctly use their new gear, add a lifejacket to the gift list and enjoy the water responsibly.
Victorians are being urged to take the 'silly' out of 'silly season' when it comes to water safety these holidays
Checking conditions
LSV's general manager - health promotion and communication Dr Bernadette Matthews said LSV's wish these holidays was to prevent drowning deaths and injuries, and have all Victorians safely enjoy the water.
"53 people lost their lives to drowning in Victoria last year, which is 10 more than the 10-year average, and the second consecutive year of above average drownings in Victorian waters. We're urging Victorians to be vigilant around water to help prevent further tragedy."
"This means checking conditions before you head out, having a look at the BeachSafe app or website before heading to the beach, knowing and sticking to your limits, actively supervising children whenever you are around water, and saving your eggnog until after you have finished all water-based activities." Dr Matthews said.
Lifeguards to be on patrol
With the holiday period traditionally being the busiest time on Victorian beaches, extra lifeguards will be on duty, including across all public holidays. Additionally, most Victorian life saving clubs will be running volunteer patrols between 10am and 5pm each day, check patrol times at your local club via Beach safe.
Dr Matthews added, "We are so grateful for the dedicated volunteers and emergency service workers who contribute their time to help keep Victorians safe as they enjoy our waterways. Please help these people to help you, by never swimming alone and if you are going boating or fishing, wearing a fully functioning, approved lifejacket, even if you don't plan to go in the water.
"We want everyone to return from their day at the beach, pool or river to their families this Christmas and every other Christmas. Anyone can drown, no one should." Dr Matthews concluded.
Pictures from Surf Life Saving Australia YouTube channel.
Source: http://gippsland.com/
Published by: news@gippsland.com
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