This summer, Royal Life Saving is urging men to make the right call when around the water with their mates and families.
Over the last decade, 2,237 males have fatally drowned in Australia. On average, 220 fathers, sons, husbands, brothers, friends drown each year. Males continue to be massively over-represented, making up 82 per cent of all drowning deaths.
Inland waterways pose higher risks for younger men aged 25–34 years, with 41 per cent of all drowning in this age group occurring at rivers/creeks, and lakes/dams. In comparison, men 35–44 years most commonly drown at beaches (26 per cent).
Alcohol is a significant factor for drowning in men. Research shows that 25–34 years age group reports the highest proportion (34 per cent) of alcohol-related drowning, compared to all other age groups.
In response, Royal Life Saving has released it’s ‘Make the Right Call’ campaign targeting men aged 25–45 years, encouraging men to look after their mates to keep each other safe around water, especially when swimming, boating, and fishing in rivers and lakes.
Public holiday long weekends are known to be risky times for drowning, with many people travelling to unfamiliar locations, having social gatherings around water, which combined with predicted hot weather can make for a fatal combination.
Safety first
‘We are asking men to make the right call and look after their mates to keep each other safe around water… when swimming, boating, and fishing,’ says Royal Life Saving Chief Executive Officer Dr Justin Scarr.
‘We know that young men often overestimate their skills and ability around water, and underestimate the dangers of hazards like currents, water depth and changes in conditions, which can be heightened with alcohol and influence from peers,’ said Dr Scarr.
The three key Make the Right safety tips are:
- Avoid alcohol around water.
- Wear a lifejacket when on the water.
- Avoid going alone around water.
For more information visit the Royal Life Saving website: www.royallifesaving.com.au/maketherightcall.
