Paediatric doctors are reminding South Australians to be careful in the water during the long weekend, after an increasing number of children have presented with water-related injuries.

So far this summer, 10 children have been treated at the Women’s and Children’s Hospital from jetty jumping, river sports, or near drownings - compared to four during the same period last year.

In the last five weeks, doctors have provided treatment for spinal and neck injuries, broken bones, and near drownings. Although some injuries were serious, all children should make a full recovery.

Semaphore Park teenager, Isaac McGair, 16, suffered multiple fractures to his pelvis during the October 2023 long weekend, as a result of colliding with two wooden poles while being towed on an inflatable raft

in Mannum. The raft came too close to shore and Isaac was unable to exit in time.

Isaac has spent the last three-and-a-half months recovering, after receiving surgery to treat his injury.

He required two metal plates to be inserted and having to rely on crutches and a wheelchair for six- weeks post operation. Luckily, he has made a full recovery and has this week been able to play indoor soccer again.

The Paediatric Major Trauma Service (Women’s and Children’s Health Network) is asking parents and children to follow these safety tips when having fun in the water:

• Swim between the flags.

• Ensure children are wearing fit for purpose flotation devices and bright swimwear so it is easy to see them in the water.

• Have a dedicated adult supervising children at all times, and avoid distractions including mobile phones.

• Be careful when jumping in the water. Items can be submerged and not visible and the water can be shallower than it looks.

• Take care when body surfing as dunes can cause spinal injuries.

• Water-skiing boats must abide by the general water safety rules, keep speeds to a minimum. When towing, an observer over the age of 16 must accompany the skipper.

• Look out for rip currents (deeper or darker water, fewer breaking waves, sandy coloured water, debris, or seaweed and/or significant water movements).

• Observe and follow any safety signs.

For anyone experiencing an emergency around water, call 000 immediately. If a child requires urgent care but you aren’t sure if they need to come to an emergency department, contact the Child and Adolescent Virtual Urgent Care Service from any mobile device.