As the summer season gradually warms up, Fleurieu residents and visitors are being reminded to use caution when swimming and recreating in, on, and around water.

Figures released by Royal Life Saving Australia in the most recent National Drowning Report show that 281 people drowned in Australia during the 2022/23 financial year, of which 17 were in South Australia.

SAFECOM Chief Executive Julia Waddington-Powell says drownings are preventable with ongoing water safety education. 

“We are fortunate to live in a part of Australia where beaches and rivers are easily accessible. 

“I encourage everyone to familiarise themselves with water safety and first aid practices when swimming, boating and enjoying leisure activities, particularly in unpatrolled areas or with children.”

The highest percentage of drowning deaths in South Australia occurs whilst swimming or recreating at a beach, with other deaths attributable to boating, other watercraft, diving and entering the water to perform a rescue.

There are several actions to consider to ensure safety around water:

• Observe warning signs, take responsibility for your own safety and consider your own ability.
• Keep a constant watch over children, including when at parks and reserves with ponds.
• Where possible, swim at beaches patrolled by lifesavers and never swim alone.
• Enrol children in a water safety program.
• Avoid alcohol and drugs - they may adversely affect your judgement and ability to swim.
• Wear a life jacket when boating.