A significant increase of drowning deaths across SA has prompted further calls for increased water safety education.
The River Murray remains a popular location for recreation locally over the warmer months, however Royal Life Savings latest drowning report shows there’s no room for Complacency around the water.
Tragically 357 drowning deaths were reported last year nationally, a near 30% increase on the year previous, with numbers in SA 70% higher than the 10 year average.
In some slightly pleasing data, drowning numbers at river locations in South Australia did drop last year.
Royal Life Saving Australia, CEO, Dr Justin Scarr said “This is a wake-up call. Drowning deaths have surged to unprecedented levels. The decline in swimming skills, an ageing population, and more people heading to remote and unfamiliar locations are causing concern.”
Every Australian, regardless of postcode or background must have access to swimming lessons, a great local pool or a safe place to swim.” Said Dr Scarr.
