UPDATE: Australia has just confirmed a staggering rise in drowning fatalities, with 357 people tragically losing their lives in what is now recognized as the country’s deadliest year for drownings on record. The National Drowning Report, released earlier today, highlights a shocking 27% increase from the previous 10-year average and a notable surge from 323 deaths last year.
The report, launched by Royal Life Saving Australia at Parliament House, indicates a concerning trend: a significant decline in swimming skills among the population, now at its lowest level since the 1970s. Dr. Justin Scarr, CEO of Royal Life Saving Australia, described the unprecedented death toll as a “wake-up call” for the nation, emphasizing the urgent need for action.
Among those affected, the over-65 age group has seen a particularly alarming spike, accounting for nearly a third of all drowning deaths. With 118 fatalities in this demographic, the report underscores the vulnerability of older Australians who are spending more time in the water but often lack essential swimming skills and safety knowledge. Dr. Scarr pointed out that health conditions and medications may further complicate their safety.
The report reveals that 43% of drowning incidents occurred on beaches and coastlines outside designated safety zones. Adam Weir, CEO of Surf Life Saving, has called for immediate government investment in safety campaigns, recruitment of more lifesavers, and improved surveillance in high-risk areas. Weir stressed that without the support of the organization’s 200,000 volunteers, drowning deaths could skyrocket by an estimated 1,800 annually.
In a glimmer of hope, drowning fatalities for children under five have decreased by 21% compared to the 10-year average, with only 15 deaths reported. This improvement is attributed to effective initiatives surrounding pool safety and education. However, as children transition out of primary school, the drowning rate sharply increases, particularly among those aged 15 to 24, where fatalities rose to 44 deaths, significantly above the historical average.
Gender disparities persist, with men representing a staggering 81% of drowning deaths, a trend attributed to higher risk-taking behaviors. Furthermore, the report highlights a grim reality: drowning disproportionately impacts disadvantaged communities, with fatalities in these areas being twice as high compared to wealthier neighborhoods.
The report also notes that individuals born overseas accounted for a third of drowning deaths, with many drowning within 10 kilometers of their homes. The data shows that the highest number of fatalities among foreign-born residents were from the United Kingdom, China, India, Malaysia, Nepal, and Papua New Guinea.
Notably, around 30% of drowning incidents occurred in December and January, coinciding with summer holiday activities. Furthermore, this year’s April witnessed a disturbing doubling of drowning deaths, attributed to a confluence of school holidays, Easter, and Anzac Day.
Surf Life Saving pointed out that rip currents are the leading cause of beach drowning, taking more lives than sharks, floods, or cyclones combined. Weir stated, “Never have our surf lifesavers and lifeguards worked harder to keep people safe at beaches, with nearly 2.2 million preventative actions and over 8,000 rescues this year alone.”
The report indicates that drowning deaths in inland bodies of water, including dams and rivers, rose 23% compared to the average, while pool fatalities increased by 6% to 25 deaths. New South Wales reported the highest number of drowning deaths at 129, which is nearly a 30% increase on the 10-year average, with men over 75 accounting for 16% of those fatalities. Victoria experienced 52 deaths, reflecting an 8% rise.
As the government prepares to respond to this alarming situation, the focus will shift towards enhancing water safety education and accessibility to swimming lessons for all Australians, regardless of their background or location. The time for urgent action is now.
