Less than a month into summer, there have been more drownings in Australia compared with the same time last year — with 18 deaths recorded versus 14 in 2023.
The week between Christmas Day and New Year's Day is the deadliest time to be in and on the water, Royal Life Saving Australia says.
An average of 15 lives are lost each year as people head to beaches, rivers, dams, lakes and pools to relax and have fun with family and friends.
"The dangers are heightened when people travel, visit unfamiliar locations or celebrate near water," chief executive Justin Scarr said on Sunday.
'Riskiest time'
Last summer, 26 per cent of all drowning deaths nationally occurred between Christmas and New Year. That's an average of three people drowning per day.
The danger is greatest on public holidays, with the highest drowning rates consistently recorded on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
"The festive season is a time for relaxing, social gatherings and celebrations, but we know this is the riskiest time to be around water," Scarr said.
"So, it's also when we need to stay most vigilant around water."
What precautions should you take around water this summer?
With heatwaves and high temperatures forecast across the country, more people are likely to head to waterways for respite, .
Heatwaves and high temperatures this summer will likely push the risk even higher. Source: AAP / Bianca De Marchi
"Don't overestimate your swimming abilities, supervise children, avoid alcohol around water, check the weather forecast, be prepared to change your plans and always wear a life jacket when boating or fishing."
The society said a quarter of drownings during this period involved alcohol, and deaths could happen in all water environments, including beaches, rivers, lakes and backyard pools.
The first day of a trip or holiday is often the most hazardous, as people are unfamiliar with their surroundings.
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Record numbers of young people and migrants figure in drowning deaths
SBS News
04/12/202403:00
More than 40 per cent of deaths involved people who had travelled 50km or more from home to where they drowned.
Almost 40 per cent of people who drowned during the holiday period were migrants, and more than 30 per cent of deaths in 2023 involved incidents in which more than one person drowned.
