Need to act responsibly around rivers
WE would like to highlight to your readers that over 1500 people ( 1514) people have drowned in Australian inland waterways since the 1st July 2002. This included 1133 in rivers, creeks and streams and 401 in lakes, dams and lagoons.
Our inland waterways are the leading location for drowning in Australia.
All types of people are drowning in rivers from young children to the elderly. What is most alarming is that almost 75 per cent of people, who drowned in rivers, were locals and a majority were male.
So why are so many drowning in our local rivers?
The flat, still surface of a river, gives a false sense of security. You can’t see ice cold water, snags like tree branches or strong currents but they can be lethal.
Dangerous activities such as consuming alcohol, driving through floodwaters and not wearing a lifejacket are also adding to the alarming figures.
To lose a loved one so close to home when it could have been prevented is heartbreaking. People need to act responsibly around rivers and avoid any behaviour that may increase the risk of drowning.
Royal Life Saving Society – Australia is rolling out its extensive campaign in your area over the next four months to save lives on Australian rivers and is asking when enjoying our rivers to please remember to: • Always wear a lifejacket • Avoid alcohol around water • Never swim alone and; • Learn lifesaving skills It’s simple, Respect the River To get more information readers can go to www. royallifesaving. com. au/ respecttheriver JUSTIN SCARR, Chief Executive Officer, Royal Life Saving Society – Australia.