ACCIDENTAL entry into waterways is one of the most common causes of drowning, new statistics have revealed.
Life Saving Victoria says that since 2000, 17 per cent of fatal drownings have been preceded by people walking near water and on rocks. LSV research and evaluation manager Dr Hannah Calverley said, “in the past decade, accidental entry accounted for 41 per cent 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.”
“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,” she said. “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.”
With good weather expected for this Monday’s Labour Day public holiday, LSV is urging people to be cautious around the water.
“With Victorians’ likelihood of drowning increasing by 68 per cent on a public holiday, this message is particularly important in the lead up to Labour Day on March 13,” 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.”
First published in the Chelsea Mordialloc Mentone News – 8 March 2023