3. Avoid alcohol around water. Last year 44 people who drowned recorded a positive reading for alcohol [2]. Alcohol can delay your reaction time, inhibit your ability to assess risk, and effect your swimming ability. Alcohol and water don’t mix. Read how alcohol can increase your risk of drowning.
4. Be aware of medical conditions. 25% of people who lost their lives to drowning last year had a pre-existing medical condition.2 Adults over the age of 55 are at greater risk. Make sure you know your limits, have regular check-ups with your doctor, treat conditions, and don’t swim alone. Click here for more tips and resources
5. Learn CPR and first aid. Resuscitation can mean the difference between life and death. Learn lifesaving skills so you can provide vital treatment in the event of an emergency. Click here to sign up for a training course near you.
6. Always swim between the flags when at the beach. If you get into trouble, stay calm and attract attention by raising your arm above your head. Visit Surf Life Saving Australia for more information.
Visit the Royal Life Saving Society – Australia website for more tips and resources.
[1] O’Connor P. National Assessment of Boating Fatalities in Australia 1999 – 2004: The findings of phase 3 of the assessment of fatal and non-fatal injury due to boating in Australia. Australia: National Marine Safety Committee Inc., 2008.
[2] Royal Life Saving Society – Australia (2016) Royal Life Saving National Drowning Report 2016, Sydney Australia
