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2010 NSW Drowning Report

  Royal Life Saving 2010 NSW Drowning Report (946KB)

Inland waterways top the list as the most common location of drowning deaths in NSW

New statistics showing that inland waterways such as rivers, lakes and dams rank as the number one location of drowning deaths in New South Wales has prompted a warning from Royal Life Saving to take care around water to ensure we do not see more tragic drowning deaths. Drowning is a very significant issue for regional Australians with 60 per cent of all drowning deaths occurring outside of major cities.

103 people lost their lives as a result of drowning across the state during the year 1 July 2009 to 30 June 2010 according to the Royal Life Saving 2010 New South Wales Drowning Report, released today.

1 in 4 of these people drowned whilst undertaking fishing activities, a massive increase of 82 per cent above the five year average. Royal Life Saving will shortly release an in depth report on fishing fatalities in NSW highlighting that rock fishing continues to be one of the most dangerous sports.

David Macallister, CEO Royal Life Saving NSW says this year's drowning statistics highlight a range of issues where solutions are urgently required to reduce drowning. "The number of people drowning in NSW remains an ongoing concern; the clear message from this year's drowning figures is that you can not be complacent when in on, or around water".

While the Society is pleased to see the reduction in overall drowning deaths, the rate at which toddlers are drowning is extremely disappointing. Tragically, eight children under five drowned this year, with 75 per cent occurring in home swimming pools."These preventable drowning deaths have a devastating impact on the families and friends of the children lost. We need to continue to remind parents and carers of the importance of Keep Watch," added Mr. Macallister.

At the other end of the scale, drowning in people over 55 now represents more than a third of all drowning deaths and it is clear we need urgent strategies to protect those in this age group.

With the start of summer and school holidays just around the corner, Royal Life Saving is also issuing a caution to all parents over this holiday period - whilst socialising and playing host, make sure someone is given the role of actively supervising the children. This applies equally at public swimming pools, beaches, rivers, baths and backyard pools. "We can't stress enough the need for constant supervision of children," said Mr. Macallister.

The Christmas period should be a fun time with friends and family, so take care around water to ensure we do not see more tragic drowning deaths, warns Royal Life Saving.

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