VICTORIANS are urged to take care near inland waterways due to a rise in fatal and non-fatal drownings in the state. Life Saving Victoria’s 2022-23 drowning report reveals a 14 per cent increase in fatal drownings and a 13 per cent increase in non-fatal incidents at inland waterways compared to the 10-year average. Approximately two-thirds of these incidents involve alcohol or drugs.
Even in holiday hotspots like Murray River towns, where populations surge in summer, locals are not immune to risks. Dr Hannah Calverley, LSV’s research manager, highlights that inland waterways in Victoria witness just as many, if not more, fatal drownings than coastal areas. Alarmingly, over a third of these incidents occur within the victim’s residential postcode.
Inland waterways, such as rivers and lakes, pose unique drowning risks. Ambulance Victoria’s Justin Dunlop emphasised the importance of recognising these hazards. Incidents often result from unexpected slips and falls, making them more perilous as victims are unprepared and may suffer significant injuries.
To report emergencies, call Triple Zero (000). In remote areas, the ‘Emergency Plus’ app, using GPS, provides precise location details to Triple Zero. Open the app to share location coordinates and three descriptive words to accurately pinpoint your location.
Staying safe around inland waterways this summer:
Read the signs around waterways to familiarise yourself with the dangers, which differ at each body of water and even at different sections of the same river or lake.
Learn how to swim and know your limits.
Never swim alone and let people know where you’re going.
Be alert around waterways, whether you’re planning to enter the water or not, this includes actively and constantly supervising children.
Whether in a boat, taking part in water sports or swimming, people should also wear a correctly fitted lifejacket.
