Drowning risk doubles over holiday period, beachgoers warned

Beachgoers have been urged to swim safely, with the risk of drowning known to double over the holiday period.

Young adults aged between 16 to 39 are the highest risk demographic for drowning, with risk-taking behaviours, such as swimming at unpatrolled beaches driving the rate of drownings, according to Surf Lifesaving Australia (SLSA) data.

Swimming while on drugs or under the influence of alcohol has also led to increasing numbers of drowning deaths.

There have been 125 drowning deaths in 12 months leading up to June 2023, with 55 of them happening over last summer, SLSA’s National Coastal Safety Report found.

Lifesavers will be out in droves over the summer to ensure people stay safe on the beach. 

“Our surf lifesavers will be volunteering their time over the holiday period to keep watch over the millions of visitors that will want to enjoy our iconic beaches,” SLSA chief executive Adam Weir said.

“We want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable holiday, that’s why we are urging people to play it safe this summer.

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“Sadly, the holiday periods can be the most tragic along our coastline with drowning deaths twice as likely during this time.

“People taking unnecessary risks, swimming at unpatrolled beaches and mixing swimming with alcohol and drugs, are all contributing factors.

“So please, make this festive season a safe one, swim at a patrolled beach and make sure you follow the advice of surf lifesavers and lifeguards.”

How to stay safe at the beach and pool

Surf Lifesaving Australia have released a list of tips to stay safe this summer, including